Well, I dearly love children's literature but I must say that it has been quite some time since I became truly excited over the debut of a new series for the young ones. My goodness, this is a wonderful tribute to one of the most influential writers in the English Language. The author, Paul Nowak has based this small book on the life and work of the fantastic and unforgettable author, G.K. Chesterton, who in this work is called "Uncle Chestnut.
Chesterton, as another reviewer has noted, published well over 100 books, numerous poems and short stories. His influence over the writings of such people as C.S. Lewis, Agatha Christie, J.R.R. Tolkien, and even Lawrence, among many, many others Is incalculable. To be honest, I cringe every time I bring the name of Chesterton up in front of a group of students and receive nothing but blank stares. I always think "how very sad and how so very, very much they are missing." Perhaps this work by Nowak will help elevate this tragedy some what and open up new worlds in literature, and indeed thought, to the younger ones of today. Chesterton is an author we dare not loose to the dusty backrooms filled with unread books in our libraries.
Chesterton, as another reviewer has noted, published well over 100 books, numerous poems and short stories. His influence over the writings of such people as C.S. Lewis, Agatha Christie, J.R.R. Tolkien, and even Lawrence, among many, many others Is incalculable. To be honest, I cringe every time I bring the name of Chesterton up in front of a group of students and receive nothing but blank stares. I always think "how very sad and how so very, very much they are missing." Perhaps this work by Nowak will help elevate this tragedy some what and open up new worlds in literature, and indeed thought, to the younger ones of today. Chesterton is an author we dare not loose to the dusty backrooms filled with unread books in our libraries.
This particular work being reviewed is told through the eyes of a nephew as he relates tales about and by his favorite Uncle Chestnut, who of course is actually Chesterton. The author has captured the personality, quirkiness and all, of this great author and made him an interesting and lovable human being (which I strongly feel captures the true Chesterton and one only needs to read a few pieces of his writing to pick up on this). After reading this work it would be a rare kid that will not want his or her own Uncle Chestnut. It will be an even rarer kid that will not be at least tempted to explore the actual writing of Chesterton, which is the obvious reason this work was written for in the first place. At this point is up to use, the adults, to provide the books for the child and give even more encouragement, if needed.
This book consists of for stories, easily read stories, along with a brief introduction to the actual Uncle Chestnut. We are also treated to a delightful short (far too short in my opinion) of quotations by Chesterton. We are treated to little gems such as "Poets have been mysteriously silent on the subject of cheese," and To have the right to do a thing is not at all the same as to be right in doing it," and `Love means loving the unlovable - or it is not virtue at all." This is only a small sample.
The author's style is that of one that will please the younger set, and while simple, never once gives the impression that he, Nowak, is talking down to his audience. This is one of those works that is targeted for children, but that any adult will find just as charming and informative. I predict that as many adults will be come turned into Chesterton fans as will children after reading this one. I understand that this will become a series of books and to be quite honest, I cannot wait for what is coming in the future. If they are anything like this offering, we are all in for a wonderful and informative treat.
Do your child a favor and purchase this work. Do your self a favor and steal it from the child when she or he is sleeping and enjoy it yourself. And speaking of favors; Paul Nowak has done all of us one by writing and publishing this wonderful little book!
This book consists of for stories, easily read stories, along with a brief introduction to the actual Uncle Chestnut. We are also treated to a delightful short (far too short in my opinion) of quotations by Chesterton. We are treated to little gems such as "Poets have been mysteriously silent on the subject of cheese," and To have the right to do a thing is not at all the same as to be right in doing it," and `Love means loving the unlovable - or it is not virtue at all." This is only a small sample.
The author's style is that of one that will please the younger set, and while simple, never once gives the impression that he, Nowak, is talking down to his audience. This is one of those works that is targeted for children, but that any adult will find just as charming and informative. I predict that as many adults will be come turned into Chesterton fans as will children after reading this one. I understand that this will become a series of books and to be quite honest, I cannot wait for what is coming in the future. If they are anything like this offering, we are all in for a wonderful and informative treat.
Do your child a favor and purchase this work. Do your self a favor and steal it from the child when she or he is sleeping and enjoy it yourself. And speaking of favors; Paul Nowak has done all of us one by writing and publishing this wonderful little book!
Don Blankenship
The Ozarks
The Inconvenient Adventures of Uncle Chestnut
- Paperback: 64 pages
- Publisher: Eternal Revolution (May 29, 2009)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0977223493
3 comments :
Like also adore children's fiction and always on the look out for interesting new (or revamped)stories. Uncle Chestnut sounds fabulous and I thinks it's great that Paul Nowark has taken the time to highlight G.K. Chesteron's writings. Just occasionally the wheel does need to be reinvented.
Maureen Hume www.thepizzagang.com
Agreed, Maureen. My crew and I are looking forward to reading this ourselves :]
What a great site and such a resource for readers. I'll be a frequent visitor!
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