Some of Olivia Brooks-Scrivanich’s fondest memories feature summer evenings spent with her family watching the pattern of stars in the sky. Perhaps her fondness of nature is the reason behind this children’s adventure story.
Currently Olivia lives with her husband and dog in Kirkland, Washington.
The front cover promises quite an unusual cast of characters - that is if you can judge a book by its cover.
I started to read and became quite engrossed. The opening chapter features Fiscal Pear and Olie the owl. Fiscal Pear is crying terribly and Olie wishes to help him and get to the bottom of the problem. Fiscal Pear mentions another creature called Shimmer. I really wanted to know what all this was about so I kept on reading. If you do the same, you will learn what really is the problem with Fiscal Pear.
I just felt that this book aimed at children, wouldn’t really hold their attention for long. It seems to take forever for the author to get to the next point in the story. Maybe if it was made to appeal to an older generation this could work but then the storyline is clearly aimed at younger kids.
The story goes on to tell of the Bakery of Pears and its evil owner. When customers decide to shop elsewhere and leave her bakery alone, she can’t help but feel so angry. Angry enough to seek out Butt Rott Root. She wants her bakery to do well and the other ones near by to be quickly put out of business.
Fiscal Pear and Shimmer's adventure really starts to get going here when a kidnap gets underway - all part of the evil baker’s plan to earn herself more customers.
Not too sure what I felt about this book when I finished. I was really disappointed not to see colourful drawings which would so much enhance its appeal to children. Also the storyline seemed to drag out a bit more then is necessary - I just wonder if it would hold the attention of a classroom full of children.
Yet there are some excellent character’s in here with names like River Whale, Cutter and SOL to name a few.
An adult may enjoy this tale more because we have a longer attention span. It is of course up to each individual what to make of this. Some may really love it.
The above review was contributed by:Jessica Roberts:Jessica is a book reviewer for a local newspaper and has reviewed for a national women's magazine too. She has had various articles published in magazines and has now completed her novel. Jessica currently lives in West Yorkshire and enjoys walking in the dales and woodlands as part of her hobby as well as, of course, reviewing books. To read more of Jessica's reviews CLICK HERE
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