It has been a long time since I have been enthralled with a book. I have always loved William Joyce, he is one of my favorite author/illustrators. His range is amazing. When I stumbled across today's book I was ---as I said above---enthralled. This is the type of book that would have excited me as a child. It has familiarity, adventure and excitement all wrapped up with great illustrations. I loved the idea of this book. I am sure others have seen the similarities to another childhood classic--The
Velveteen Rabbit....but this book goes beyond making a "toy real" type story...it takes that sentiment to a whole new level. In this day and age children like more of an adventure. So Mr Joyce gives them that......at the same time giving validity to a child's love of a favorite toy.
Ollie's Odyssey by William Joyce is the charming and exciting tale of a child's connection to a beloved toy. The magic of that one toy to foster a child's imagination. This is a beginning chapter book for young readers. It would also make a wonderful read aloud. I can see it being read in school one chapter at a time. I loved Ollie and I loved Billy....I also loved the villains...scary but not too scary. William Joyce has done it again. He has brought us wonderful new characters to spend time with again and again....
