Review: From the opening I was taken in with its elegant prose ...
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 14, 2013
When done well, children's literature is on a par with some of the finest. I was intrigued by Braden McElroy's story and thought it would be a fun read. I was surprised to find it was so much more...From the opening I was taken in with its elegant prose. Simple and clean, McElroy's style is sophisticated and yet flows with appealing ease. The story itself is touching, creative and, at times, humorous. As I read it I wondered what age it was written for, as it felt perfectly appropriate for an adult. It seems that great works of children's literature often do translate into good reads for adults.McElroy's visual language and keen plot devices lead his reader head first into the descriptive world of Spirithaven. What appeals to me most about this story is its philosophical content. I love that it explores certain emotional experiences unavoidable to all of us, even children. "The Shadow in the Garden" dissects and examines psychological elements in a way that the early philosophers did. It made me think of Plato's "Symposium," a fictitious dialogue on love set in an atmosphere of reality. McElroy emulates Plato here in that he creates a fantastical setting in which his characters explore the very real feeling of grief. It's a beautiful way for anyone to view the journey of death, no matter your religion, belief, or faith.Lastly, I'll mention the dolls. They have to be some of the most entertaining characters to grace the pages of a children's book. I couldn't stop laughing at their schoolyard behavior. "Toy Story" eat your heart out!