Today I am going to share book reviews of books meant for kids! As kids, I told stories and read some to my kids, but now as they are growing older, I want them to discover and fall in love with books, language and the art of storytelling so I keep getting books – some pre-loved, some new. The other secret is I love reading children’s books as well 😛 So when the kids are done, it’s my time to read them!
This month, I came across two such books that I would like to review here. The books are The Fly away boy and Shrilok Homeless. Both books are meant for young readers. Here I have shared some of my views and some of my older kids perspectives.
The Fly Away Boy
Flyaway Boy is a beautiful depiction of a boy who does not fit in. It is human and details well the situation and thought process of everyone, right from family, friends, teachers, and neighbors.
Its a poignant take on the fact that many a time, even with best intentions at heart; ignorance about a condition could lead to catastrophic results.
Author Jane De Suza brings a sensitive tale in a playful manner and easy to read language. My daughter loved reading the book and it definitely made her sensitive towards children who just don’t seem to fit in.
Would highly recommend to all children and certainly to every adult. As adults, we seem to forget that every child is different and end up expecting them to fit in a certain pigeon hole defined by us. Such expectations end up hurting more than anything else and that is what this book highlights.
I give a 4/5 for this book. It could have been tighter or added some more of the incidents to etch a stronger character.
Shrilok Homeless – The Ultimate stories, Volume 2
The recent book haul included a kids detective series. I actually picked it because I personally love thrillers and wanted to introduce the genre to my daughter. The book was Shrilok Homeless part 2.
Though I haven’t read part 1, I didn’t feel like I missed something. It is written in a simple language and hence easy to follow for kids. The writing style is equally unassuming.
The book and the characters are Indian, hence kids can easily relate to what is being said and described.
Heavily influenced by Sherlock Holmes which is obvious from the name, but here we have a young teen detective who is eager to learn and apply his mind. This is great as it gives a positive role model.
Overall a good book to introduce mystery genre for young kids of 8+ but it might not be that engaging for kids above 12. Children who are already introduced and enjoy reading popular series like Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys etc, too might find this a bit simple and predictable.
Overall I give this book a rating of 3.5/5
Books that has to teach something are a great way to make the kids learn different aspects of life. My kids also have an inclination for reading different kind of books. Shall introduce them to these books too !
Both novels look amazing and quite interesting. I will recommend Shrilok homeless to my young cousins. Thank you for recommending these.
Developing a reading habit right from beginning is very important. It not only develops the intellect of a kid but also makes them smart. Totally going to recommend these books to my niece
Wow! this looks interesting, I am new to your blog. Do you have any recommendations for any mystery romance?
You have recommended really a couple a great books! Thanks for sharing!
i read shrilok homeless as sherlock holmes at first…lol
thanks for reviewing these two books….definitely gonna get both for my niece
Your recommendation came at a very good time. I also love thrillers as a genre and want to introduce the same to my son. This book will be a great starting point I think.
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The book great for all the book lovers nice review neha.