Ollie's Odyssey by William Joyce

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....