Review of A Long Ago place

[Maduabuchi Okwiya N Eze]

[Following is a volunteer review of "A Long Ago place" by Donna Betten.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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A Long-Ago Place is a children's story written by Donna Betten. In this book, the narrator reminisces her sweet memories as a little girl, sitting under a tree in a natural, uncontaminated rural setting and being entertained by the sweet melodies of birds.

The birds' sweet melodies work wonders on the narrator, and she often dreams of becoming certain figures. Can she look back as an adult now and still be grateful for those sweet melodies and the future they helped her create?

I was amazed by the author's narrative prowess. I could imagine, in my mind's eye, the rural setting she was reminiscing about. She takes me back to the same wonders that the "bird melody" in my "Meditation Music" app works on me.

I am grateful to Julie Westmaas for the amazing illustrations she did in this book. I was especially impressed by the painting done on page 19. I am sure children will have a great time reading this book, given that they are always attracted to colourful paintings.

I like that the author is very strategic in making this book short and, at the same time, delivering her message with just the most appropriate words. The result is that children will find this book captivating. They won't be able to put it down till the last page is turned. 

The pages of this book have different background colours, and they are all amazing. I am happy to note that the background colours do not make the words blurry. Children will learn a lot of positive values in this book. One such positive value is the love of nature.

I didn't find any grammatical errors in this book. It is thoroughly edited. I am glad to rate this book four out of four stars. This rating is based on the positive points I highlighted in the above paragraphs. There is no reason to remove any stars from the rating.

Children aged twelve and below will enjoy this book more. The author's magical narration should also appeal to older adults. I recommend that every parent pick up this book and read it out loud to their children before bedtime.

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A Long Ago place
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[Chimereucheya Okoroafo]

Sounds like a soothing reminiscence. I'd love to read such a book about a young girl living her life in the adventurous way possible. The feelings it gives and the emotions attached to the moments. Thanks for the recommendation. Nice review.

[Amy Luman]

Don’t most of us wish we could go back to the simpler time of childhood. I know it’s not the same for everyone, but a life of fewer responsibilities appeals to me. I think children will enjoy the soothing colors and words even if they don’t realize what they are feeling.