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The River Singers by Tom Moorhouse (view source)
Revision as of 12:02, 29 April 2013
, 12:02, 29 April 2013no edit summary
As in any story involving a journey the characters develop and mature throughout the book. Sylvan in particular is an endearing character; he starts off adventurous, cheeky and a little impulsive and as events unfold he learns to take responsibility for the others and gains maturity. The author includes both male and female characters and I particularly liked the way in which the girls are equal participants in the adventure and not relegated to the sidelines. The book should appeal to both boys and girls alike. Sylvan’s brother, Orris, is amusing and has slight ''Eeyore'' tendencies, being prone to gloom and the occasional lazy moment but even he discovers hidden depths by the end of the book. There are amusing episodes, particularly in the relationships between the young water voles but the author is not afraid to include moments of great sadness, tragedy and death too.
Over the course of their journey the family meet other animals, some friendly and others less so, but it is Fodur, a rat, who is to make the biggest impact on them. At first suspicious of him because they are unfamiliar with rats and their different language , Sylvan, Orris, Fern and Aven gradually learns learn to trust him and Fodur and Sylvan in particular forge an unlikely bond. As they progress into unknown territory the animals feel alien and afraid and are sometimes made welcome but often treated with suspicion. This has parallels in our world and this is useful for demonstrating to children the importance of not judging by appearances or stereotypes. There are some thought provoking passages describing the Great River as a supreme force in the animals’ lives, sometimes benevolent and protective and at other times testing them.
It would be a mistake to dismiss this enjoyable book as a ‘’story ''story about water voles’’ voles'' as it works on so many levels. Children frequently love stories about animals having adventures and find it easy to recognise characters and situations in them and a search for home is something that we can all identify with. The writing style would stretch young readers without deterring them and I think that this book would work beautifully read aloud too.
Many important themes such as trust, facing challenges and finding friendship in unlikely places are covered in this charming story but first and foremost it is a wonderful, exciting adventure with appealing characters that you grow to care about. An utterly lovely book and highly recommended.