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lagobond's review
3.0
I'm quite taken by the atmospheric story and illustrations in this book. I enjoy how Henry's adventure is described in a very matter-of-fact fashion, and mostly from his perspective, without any adult editorializing or scolding. I like that he is free to venture out on his own, in a beautiful and realistic setting which reminds me of roaming the countryside as a child. And of course Henry's mop-like sidekick, Laird Angus McAngus, is utter perfection.
Unfortunately there are some issues here which have kept me from sharing this book with the kiddos. The first thing that bothered me was how Henry's exploration is marked by flags being left everywhere, to "claim" his discoveries and the various "natives" he encounters. Not only is he littering, he's also colonizing his world. That's not how I would like children to view their surroundings. The book also follows the old gender stereotypes: little boys go exploring; moms stay home to cook and worry; and adult men are sent out to search when someone goes missing. (On the plus side, Henry is allowed to be independent, and his community is willing to be there for him in a pinch.)
So I wouldn't read this book to kids without also discussing these issues. But it does have a few things going for it that make it worthwhile -- with a little extra effort.
Unfortunately there are some issues here which have kept me from sharing this book with the kiddos. The first thing that bothered me was how Henry's exploration is marked by flags being left everywhere, to "claim" his discoveries and the various "natives" he encounters. Not only is he littering, he's also colonizing his world. That's not how I would like children to view their surroundings. The book also follows the old gender stereotypes: little boys go exploring; moms stay home to cook and worry; and adult men are sent out to search when someone goes missing. (On the plus side, Henry is allowed to be independent, and his community is willing to be there for him in a pinch.)
So I wouldn't read this book to kids without also discussing these issues. But it does have a few things going for it that make it worthwhile -- with a little extra effort.
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