The illustration from the Hobbit is by Eric Fraser
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The Surprising, Unexpected Journey
"But there is something else more profound in these stories that captures our hearts. Tolkien based his hobbits partly on the everyday Englishman. These are stories about ordinary characters doing extraordinary deeds filled with nobility, self-sacrifice, danger and the pursuit of justice and good...
But there is something deeper here. Like the eternally watchable "The Wizard of Oz" or the wildly popular Harry Potter books and movies, these are stories that touch us, about beings like you or me overcoming terrible odds — with a dash of wizardry and sorcery thrown in.
Yet the magic only works because the heroes' hearts are pure, their cause is just and their dreams are noble. They flow from a wellspring of love and compassion of spirit that bears all things and conquers all things, especially evil, and sometimes dragons . . .
And of course, it is in no small measure about the journey — the surprising, unexpected journey — and a need for faith in our collective humanity, or, if you will, our fellow creatures. Even quiet, humble, respectable hobbits need an adventure from time to time. We all need a little magic in our lives." -- Storer H. Rowley, Chicago Tribune
The illustration from Lord of the Rings is by Alan Lee.
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Stories of Wonder
There have always been journeys of wonder and magic in stories. Many began as oral tales, stories that opened the imagination.
Many stories told of quests to exotic or dangerous places; they told of demons, mythical creatures and wars. They often told of triumph and awakenings by ordinary people, young and old alike.
For centuries these stories were told by travelers, by merchants, by minstrels and teachers. Most people did not make journeys to new places unless forced to move by circumstances beyond their control. Travel was not an option. Survival was a full time job.
Stories were often shared and talked about. It was good to have happy endings after danger and travail. Stories gave hope.
The illustration from East of the Sun, West of the Moon is by Kay Nielson
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Stories of the Sea
Stories of the sea have been told from the earliest time. The Homeric epics were originally oral tales, told over many years.
There were many who had heard of the sea, but never seen it.
Even for those who lived by the sea, and those who worked on the sea, the oceans had a mystery about them; there was always the unknown.
Despite dangers on the sea from storms, pirates, and other enemies, there were always men who made journeys on the sea for food, or trade, or in pursuit of riches.
And there were always stories told of these journeys on the sea.
The painting is by Ivan Aivazovsky.
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A Breakthrough Journey -- An Immense Impact
I read Robinson Crusoe many years ago and marveled at the clever ways that the shipwrecked man of the sea was able to survive by creating a life with all the necessities through his ingenuity and courage. And he did a brave act by saving and befriending another man, a savage, a man unlike anyone whom he had known back in England.
I had no idea that the book I was reading was one of many, many distilled and rewritten versions of the original. Nor did I know that this book had paved the way for -- and actually influenced -- other early favorites of mine; stories that also took place on faraway islands: Swiss Family Robinson (1812), Treasure Island (1863 ), and Kidnapped (1886).
I learned of the significance of Robinson Crusoe when reading Seth Lerer's book, Children's Literature, A Reader's History from Aesop to Harry Potter. Here is an excerpt:
"Almost from its original publication in 1719, Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe had an immense impact on literature for children and adult . . . The novel brings together the two major early modern philosphical and social strands that contributed to children's literary culture: Puritan devotion and Lockean epistomology. . .In effecting this synthesis, Robinson Crusoe did something new, as if it gave voice to the childhood of the English novel itself."
Facts and Figures
"The book was published on 25 April 1719. Before the end of the year, this first volume had run through four editions. By the end of the 19th century, no book in the history of Western Literature had more editions, spin-offs and translations. . .than Robinson Crusoe, with more than 700 such alternative versions, including children's versions with pictures and no text." -- WikipediaCrusoe
The book cover illustration is by J. Ayton Symington.
The bottom illustration is by Walter Padgett.
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"The meaning of a story emerges in the meeting between the words on the page and the thoughts in the reader's mind." - Phillip Pullman author of His Dark Materials
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Castle In The Mist
"I read the book and really enjoyed it! It's the sequel to another book called "Planet of the Dogs" and even though I hadn't read the first volume it was still easy to follow. It's a fun fantasy chapter book with a lot of great lessons to be learned. Most of these lessons come from dogs, of course. . .My favorite parts of the book had to do with how the dogs help the people of Earth . . . .They even helped save some kidnapped children from an evil Prince. . . I would recommend Castle In The Mist for children as well as adults". . . Reviewed by Ann Staub for PawsitivelyPets
Here is the link to read sample chapters of Castle In The Mist: Planet Of The Dogs
The illustration of Prince Ukko from Castle In The Mist is by Stella Mustanoja McCarty
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From the Very Beginning
"From the very beginning, thousands of years ago, when tales were told to create communal bonds in face of the inexplicable forces of nature, to the present, when fairy tales are written and told to provide hope in a world seemingly on the brink of catastrophe, mature men and women have been the creators and cultivators of the fairy tale tradition ..." Jack Zipes, scholar, author, and pioneer in children's literature.
The photo is of the Ring of Kerry, Ireland.
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World Vision International works around the world. "Everything World Vision does is focused on one goal: the sustained well being of children, especially the most vulnerable."
The number of refugee children in the world is staggering. Their pasts are filled with devastation, pain and loss. The work of NGOs like World Vision, to bring some hope into their lives, is of supreme importance.
"World Vision has been working in the Middle East for more than 35 years and currently has long-term development projects in Jerusalem-West Bank-Gaza and Lebanon.
In addition to on-going long-term development work, World Vision is working directly and through partner organizations to support the needs of those affected by increased violence in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey and Iraq and is also helping families in Gaza as they attempt to rebuild their lives after the most recent conflict."
Here is link to their website:World Vision
Photo AFP/Getty
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Fairy Tales
"Fairy tales are like riddles wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma, and that’s what accounts in part for our fierce repetition compulsion when it comes to stories like Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, or The Frog King. It is always something of a challenge to figure out what makes a fairy tale tick and whir with cultural energy and why each one tends to carry some kind of emotional charge." -- Maria Tatar in Signature
The image of Puss 'n Boots is by Gustav Dore.
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Fantastic, Marvelous, and Manifestly Unreal
"Folklore, legends, myths and fairy tales have followed childhood through the ages, for every healthy youngster has a wholesome and instinctive love for stories fantastic, marvelous and manifestly unreal. The winged fairies of Grimm and Andersen have brought more happiness to childish hearts than all other human creations." -- L. Frank Baum
The original cover and illustrations are by W.W. Denslow
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A Magic Journey from a Drab and Isolated Grey World to the Emerald City
When people think of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, by L. Frank Baum, they generally have the movie in mind, a movie inspired by, and based on, Baum's exceptional book. First published in 1900, the book tells the story of a magical journey that would fulfill all wishes, if only one followed -- and stayed on -- the yellow brick road. For this special road would take you to the Wizard of Oz, a man who could give you courage, compassion, and intelligence. He could even get you home to Kansas. . .or not. There were many obstacles and dangers along the way, from nasty witches to poppy fields that looked lovely, but could put you to sleep -- forever.
Dorothy, a brave little girl, showed the reader that by working together with her friends, they could overcome frightening dangers and difficulties, and make their hopes and dreams come true.
The American Golden Age Of Children's Literature
Jerry Griswald, scholar and author, in his book Audacious Kids, The Classic American Children's Story, positions Baum's book as a shining example of The Golden Age of American Children's Literature, 1865-1914. Griswald cites many books to illustrate the Golden Age concept, ranging from Little Women and Tom Sawyer, to Hans Brinker and Toby Tyler. He writes of parallels in plot and structure found in American children's literature of that era. To further illustrate the Golden Age concept, he cites ongoing " best seller lists headed by children's books that were read by young and old alike." It seem that what we today characterize as crossover books were quite common in the Golden Age.
According to Snopes, the Wonderful Wizard of Oz "had sold 5 million copies before its copyright expired in 1956, and the 1939 musical film version with Judy Garland (although not initially successful) has probably been viewed more times by more people than any other film in the history of cinema."
Where did the name Oz come from? Here is a link to the Etymology of Oz: Snopes.
The above illustrations by W.W. Denslow are from the original 1900 edition of the book.
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KIDLITOSPHERE Conference 2017
KidLitCon is an annual gathering of people who care about, and blog about, children’s and young adult books, including librarians, teachers, authors, illustrators, parents, and book reviewers. "This is a small, friendly conference, perfect for (often) introverted book lovers. Attending is a great way to turn virtual blogging friends into real world friends."
"I was thrilled to attend the 2016 KidLit Con event. . . I didn't know what to expect but I was welcomed by everyone. The event was informative and engaging. All attendees were enthusiastic and ready to chat about all things books. I had so much fun and made so many wonderful friends." Kristi Bernard, Writer, Blogger, Reviewer, first-time attendee, and presenter at Kidlitcon 2016.
The illustration is by Terri Windling.
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How to Change the World in 30 Seconds
An Audacious Title -- What Does It Mean?
The following summary from Amazon explains the truth of this provocative title. The book was written by author and animal advocate, C. A. Wulff.
" If you lo ve animals and are dismayed when you see stories of animal abuse and cruelty in the news; if you ever wished you could do something about it, but you just didn't know where to start, this book has you covered. Just 30 seconds a day on the Internet can not only make a difference, but can also change the world. . . . for novices as well as experienced animal rescuers. Combining case histories with practical tips, this guide demonstrates how to use the Internet to advocate for dogs; from simple clicks to more advanced methods."
Review Excerpt
"...This book is a great read for anyone who is into animal rescue or anyone who is just an animal lover who feels like there is nothing they can do. VERY informative & VERY well written. I will be keeping this book close by to refer back to for the amazing resources. One person CAN make a difference!" Excerpted from an Amazon Review by Krysta Kaos
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Movies
Brigsby Bear sounds like imaginative fun for kids, young adults and older adults in the crossover world. Based on the reviews and trailers, I will certainly see it when I have an opportunity.
Here is an excerpt from the NY Times review by Manohla Dargis
". . .That’s partly what “Brigsby Bear” is about, though mostly it’s a sweet and sometimes delightful melancholic story of a lonely man saved by imagination and love. That sounds like a bushel of cornball and might have devolved into pure ick if the director, Dave McCary, didn’t lead from the heart and wasn’t adept at navigating seemingly clashing tones. He hooks you early with an uneasily ha-ha, strange opener in which James and two others — Jane Adams plays April while a warm, wonderful Mark Hamill plays Ted — engage in “Brigsby” banter. Soon, sirens are flashing and the movie darkens; a few beats later, it brightens, then swerves into silliness only to veer into seriousness. . ."
Here is the Critics Concensus from 91 reviews on Rotten Tomatoes: "Audiences attuned to Brigsby Bear's strange frequency will be moved by its earnest -- and endearingly original -- approach to pop culture's impact and the creative urge."
Here is Trailer #1
Here is Trailer #2
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Miyazaki Returns
"If anyone’s earned the right to do whatever he likes in retirement, it’s Hayao Miyazaki. This includes un-retiring, as the venerable 76-year-old animation master has now done four years after his swansong film. After rumours earlier in the year, Studio Ghibli recently confirmed it had reopened to begin making a 12th Miyazaki feature. He is thought to be expanding Boro the Caterpillar, a 12-minute short he had been making for the Ghibli Museum, which he was unsatisfied with." -- Phil Hoad in the Guardian
Promo for new Miyazaki film: Boro
Here is a brief profile of Miyazaki and the new film
The illustration is from My Neighbor Totoro.
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Therapy Dogs for Veterans in the UK..."The UK's first charity organisation training Assistance Dogs for British ex-servicemen and women with service-related mental health conditions"
I learned from the excellent Channel 4 documentary video (link below) that this group was started by a Veteran with PTSD and that they are overwhelmed by requests for dogs.
". . .We have seen the self worth that Veterans develop when experiencing the positive aspects of dog ownership and the companionship it brings, and have witnessed the fantastic effects of the therapeutic values that dogs can bring. . .
More veterans are dying from suicides as a result of the impact of the psychological and emotional trauma than have been killed in conflict. The divorce rate, number who are now in prison or homeless, and the impact these issues are having on the children of our veterans are shocking. Many have severed relationships, are afraid to leave their homes, get little sleep due to recurring nightmares, and are emotionally numb.
Our PALS Programme to train and provide assistance dogs for mental health is just one adjunct to treatment that is having a profound effect on helping Veterans to increase their quality of life and regain independence."
Here is a link to their website: Veterans With Dogs.
Here is a link to the excellent video of therapy dogs with several veterans produced by Channel 4.
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Another Train...Like oral tales and ballads of centuries past, this is a wonderful song of hope...click here for the experience: Poozies
The beginning is now
It will always be
You say you lost your chance
Then fate brought you defeat
But that means nothing
You look so sad
You've been listening to those
Who say you missed your chance
There's another train
There always is
Maybe the next, one is yours
Get up and climb aboard
Another train. . .
Pete Morton, Harbourtown Music, Composed Another Train
The illustration of a Girl Reading in an Orphanage is by Gotthard Kuel
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Home Again
Aunt Em had just come out of the house to water the cabbages when she looked up and saw Dorothy running toward her.
"My darling child!" she cried, folding the little girl in her arms and covering her face with kisses. "Where in the world did you come from?"
"From the Land of Oz," said Dorothy gravely. "And here is Toto, too. And oh, Aunt Em! I'm so glad to be at home again!" -- from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, by L. Frank Baum.
Illustration by W.W. Denslow
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Why Am I ?
The Yelodoggie Book Search Continues
We are actively searching for a publisher who will love Why Am I ?, embrace its potential, and launch it into the world.
Why Am I ? is a joyous book that helps children recognize and appreciate differences and to embrace that which is unique in each of us. Why Am I ? teaches tolerance.
We believe that Why Am I ?, C.A. Wulff's wonderful new Yelodoggie book should have wide distribution. Kids 4-8 love it and we see it as the beginning of a series.
Here is an advance review of Why Am I ? by Sophia, Age 9.
"It was a wonderful story of a sweet little puppy
who goes to find an answer of why he was yellow.
I like it because he went on a journey and it was
like an adventure around the country. In the end
he comes home being happy the color he is."
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The Planet Of The Dogs Series
To read sample chapters of any book in the series, visit PlanetOfTheDogs
The Planet Of The Dogs series (including Castle In The Mist and Snow Valley Heroes, A Christmas Tale) is available from many Internet sources and through independent book stores of all sizes.
-- Robert Lewis Stevenson
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