Sunday, April 14, 2013

Unplug and Read: Screen Free Week April 29 to May 5th

Every since Barnaby's birth, he's had this odd problem.  He floats...

Random House Children's Books sent me a copy of this book for review (thank you).  It has been published so you can pick up a copy at your local bookstore now.

This is a different fantasy story written for ages 8-12.  When Barnaby is born, he floats.  The doctors have no more idea why than his parents and the only solution to the problem is to weight him down until he stays in place.

One day, Barnaby's mother just cannot stand it anymore and cuts his knapsack to let the sand trickle out.  When it does, he flies up in the air and floats in the wind.  While that is wondrous, he's worried about what will become of him.  No worries needed; a female couple pick him up in their hot air balloon and take him home with them.

From there, he has other fine adventures.  In each instance, he's with someone who is "not normal".  They are nice to Barnaby, accept him as he is, and while they may be different, he sees no reason to not accept them as friends.  He works hard to get back home but when he does, he suddenly realizes who he is and how he is can be his own decision.

It's a good read for anyone who might be a bit different. (And who isn't?)  The overall message is that you're alright, no matter what others might deem strange about you.  That's a good lesson to carry with us through life.

Don't stay plugged in, online, and texting all the time.  Go offline and read or listen to an audio book.  It's relaxing and rejuvenating and will make you feel better.  Reward yourself with a good book and make your day better.
   
Happy reading.

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