Oh geez - another one! You are keeping me busy. I have it on hold at the library. Also sent your post to one of our nephews kids. He is a bit older but into magic and reading so thought he might have fun with it. We will see what he says. We are still exploring 102 at our house. Our grandson is constantly going back to the end papers to read the names of the beans. Also wondering what country some of them might have come from. Books are great fun!
One thing makes me pause with a recommendation for children 4-8. Is this a "safe read" for children who may lack the judgement to know his magic should be reproduced by them? For whom is the book most appropriate other than adoring adults? Thoughts?
I see that the notorious online bookseller recommends this book for ages 4 to 8, but I don't agree. (The author's website says the same. Still don't agree.) I believe the interest level would be ages 7 and up, if read aloud. I think it would be best for ages 10 and up. There's a good deal to discuss here. As for reproducing his escape feats, I suppose that's a possibility. I don't think there's enough in the book or illustrations to give them clear instructions.
Reading is a kind of magic. It can transport us anywhere in a moment.
Yes! I hadn't integrated his reading into his magic. Than you!
Oh geez - another one! You are keeping me busy. I have it on hold at the library. Also sent your post to one of our nephews kids. He is a bit older but into magic and reading so thought he might have fun with it. We will see what he says. We are still exploring 102 at our house. Our grandson is constantly going back to the end papers to read the names of the beans. Also wondering what country some of them might have come from. Books are great fun!
Beans forever! I was curious about them, too.
This book is so lovely--I'm excited to share it with students so they can see the direct connection between books and magic.
She does that subtly but the connection embraces you.
I'm intrigued! This book sounds amazing.
I LOVE this book!!!! (And seconding Aimee's comment. Barb is a gem!!!)
Barb Rosenstock is a gem!
A multifaceted gem, yes.
Ages 4-8 felt off to me as well. I think 10 and up is a much bettr choice.
excellent point Vicki
One thing makes me pause with a recommendation for children 4-8. Is this a "safe read" for children who may lack the judgement to know his magic should be reproduced by them? For whom is the book most appropriate other than adoring adults? Thoughts?
I see that the notorious online bookseller recommends this book for ages 4 to 8, but I don't agree. (The author's website says the same. Still don't agree.) I believe the interest level would be ages 7 and up, if read aloud. I think it would be best for ages 10 and up. There's a good deal to discuss here. As for reproducing his escape feats, I suppose that's a possibility. I don't think there's enough in the book or illustrations to give them clear instructions.
I totally agree with Avi- reading is magic!
I have always been intrigued by Houdini and, even more so now that I know he hired his own librarian! I am adding him to my list on unlikely heroes.