I love the concept of Forever Children
I read through Edward Pureheart this morning and I think it's a really wonderful achievement. The writing is delightful and I love the concept of Forever Children. And as a parent of a forever child, the book is...well, I was going to say it's an emotional rollercoaster, but perhaps an emotional carousel would be more appropriate! It brings up a lot of the same experiences, worries and fears that we parents must all have for our children, so it’s hard to read the book without a tear (or lots of tears) in one’s eye.
I like that it aims at giving some emotional meaning and advice to the intended audience of forever children, without being too didactic or clumsy. I see it as more like trying to hold their hand through some of their own experiences and fears, helping to make sense of things that must often seem senseless.
As to whether it hits that target audience – yes and no. That’s not a criticism – it’s simply that it would depend upon the individual. For instance, our James would not be able to understand the book at all and wouldn’t have the patience or interest to listen to it, but that’s purely because of his learning level. Others will no doubt be at the right level for it and I hope (and assume) some of those on the CHD2 group will fit that, since there is of course a variety of levels of ability. I actually think there is an opportunity for a second Edward Pureheart book, a more simplified version aimed at those who maybe understand at the level of a 5-year old (without wishing to reduce our forever children to Key Stage levels, but I hope you know what I mean).
I also think that the book would appeal to children generally so it would be a disservice to say it was solely for forever children. The story has plenty of emotional resonance and meaning for any child, so although you intend it almost as a different genre, it also stands as a very good children’s book on its own merit.
Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed it (despite the tears!). You’ve done a fantastic job with it and I sincerely hope it achieves the aims you have for it.
- Roger Winterbottom, Co-founder of CHD2 UK