Author: Kazo Kibuishi
Publisher: Scholastic
Series: Amulet, Bk 1
ISBN: 9780439846813
Pages: 187
Obtained: Library copy
Comments:
I saw this series (well, actually, for a book further into the series) mentioned in one of Puss Reboots's "What Are You Reading" posts, and I decided I needed to try it. I started it on the day scheduled as a family "picnic" day. I hadn't gotten very far when my quiet "hiding" place (my niece's bed) had been invaded. I soon found myself reading the book to my 4 year old nephew and 3 year old niece. We got pretty far before the actual picnic part of things started and we headed outside. Later that day, we climbed up to this little landing spot above the slide and finished the book. I still can't believe I read what I'd classify as a Middle Grade level book to a 4 and 3 yo (with very slight editing when needed for the read-aloud drama effect or to be more on their level...and they missed the very beginning). It had some pretty intense emotions. The father is dead. The remaining family has moved to a new place. The mother's in danger. Etc. But the kiddos paid attention to the whole thing. We whizzed through it much faster than The Pagemaster, and they want to read the second book with me (my niece just asked about it again today). So obviously I'll be continuing with the series. And I hope it doesn't get too old for them, but for now I'll keep reading it with the kiddos.
Wow...that's saying a lot about the book. Then again, I loved books that were meant for older kids. By the time I was 12, I was into adult only books. Keep in mind, I hadn't found my love of books until adulthood, but I did read a few. ;)
ReplyDeleteI read books that were older, but it seems different when they're so young. I found my love of reading around the end of 5th grade - beginning of 6th grade. I was having trouble on the friend front, and books helped fill the gap.
DeleteThe first book is the most emotionally intense of the series. The later ones settle in on a more traditional adventure/travel story. If they had no problem with book one, they should be fine with the others.
ReplyDeleteThat's good to know. My schedule hasn't allowed for it yet, but I'm hoping to read the second book with them soon. I think I'm babysitting Tuesday, so maybe then.
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