Review of The Boy With The Glow

[Stephen Campana]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Boy With The Glow" by Charles H. Gripenburg.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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In "The Boy With The Glow" by Charles H. Gripenburg, we are taken on a boy’s journey of self-discovery as he faces his obstacles with a little help from his friends–the sun, moon, earth, stars, clouds, wind, and some fireflies, each of whom imparts to him little nuggets of wisdom, in the form of poems, to keep him going and help him chart his course.

Needless to say, they don’t make it easy or remove the difficulties; rather they gently encourage him to soldier on through the trials and tribulations, relying on his own vision and the light and love of others to get him through. When the boy complains, “Why is my journey extended?” the sun replies, “That’s what nature intended.” When the boy objects that it’s not fair, the sun replies, “Nature does not care, Because it is hard / Doesn’t mean it’s not worth it / Nothing in life that is worth it / No matter how special Is perfect.”

I like the way the author draws correlations between the advice, or help, given and the one dispensing it: the sun gives heat, the fireflies light, the earth a foundation beneath the boy’s feet, etc… For example, the fireflies “flew into a jar / So, the boy could look out / Their light will help guide him / And take away all his doubts” and advise him to “Look for light in the others / Or from whatever's around / Accept help with your hand / And the clear path will be found.”

I also liked the simple, almost child-like illustrations. The editing was top-notch, and I found no errors. The poems are great, too.

This is a great book for kids searching for answers and trying to discover who they are. Parents of young kids will like it, too. I am pleased to give this charming book 5 out of 5 stars. I found nothing I disliked. "The Boy With The Glow" will shine a bright light of self-discovery for anyone who takes its lessons to heart.

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The Boy With The Glow
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[Hlumelo Makinana]

[Mary John 10]

The Boy With The Glow by Charles H. Gripenburg follows a young boy on his journey of self-discovery, where he faces challenges with the guidance of natural elements like the sun, moon, earth, stars, clouds, wind, and fireflies. Each of these characters offers the boy wisdom through poems, encouraging him to keep moving forward despite the obstacles. The boy learns that life’s struggles are a natural part of the journey, and that perseverance, vision, and the support of others are key to overcoming them. The story conveys a powerful message about resilience and the value of hard-earned growth.

[Williams Jaden]

The Boy With The Glow by Charles H. Gripenburg follows a boy’s journey of self-discovery, guided by the wisdom of the sun, moon, earth, and more. Through poetic advice, these companions encourage him to face challenges and rely on his inner strength and the love of others. A reflective tale about perseverance and growth.

[Naimah Agboluaje]

The review of "The Boy With The Glow" by Charles H. Gripenburg highlights the book's ability to take readers on a journey of self-discovery through the eyes of a young boy. The author beautifully incorporates elements of nature to provide wisdom and guidance to the protagonist. The correlation between the advice given and the characters dispensing it adds depth to the story. The illustrations, editing, and poems are all commendable. Overall, this captivating book offers valuable lessons for children and parents alike. I would rate it 5 out of 5 stars. Richly textured world-building, felt expansive.