When Harry’s mum and dad tell him that they will be moving to a cabin in the Canadian wilderness, his first thought is about leaving his friends behind. He then finds out that there will be NO INTERNET!!!
Join Harry on the adventure of a lifetime and find out how he adapts when everything he is used to changes overnight…
–from the blurb about We’re Moving Where?!
Thank you to Glen Blackwell for providing me with a free digital copy of this book for review.
Today marks almost exactly one year since COVID-19 quarantine measures started seriously impacting my life. So, today’s book is definitely a timely one! Everyone has had to adapt and make changes to their lives over the past year, and that’s the main theme of We’re Moving Where?! Plus, this book was short and sweet, and reading it was the perfect way to spend my weekend!
Review
Obviously, since this is a children’s book, this one isn’t a difficult read. But, based on what I can remember from when I did fit the target age demographic for this book, this would’ve been right at my level! Honestly, I think writing children’s books is harder than writing for adults or teenagers. There’s a whole other layer of making sure what you’re writing is readable for young children. I can’t even imagine, and I’m impressed by Blackwell’s ability to do this so well.
That being said, despite the shorter length and the genre, the characterization in We’re Moving Where?! didn’t disappoint. Just like Harry, I switched schools when I was about the same age. So, I can attest to the fact that the way Blackwell wrote Harry’s reaction is entirely accurate. The combination of excitement and sadness? Spot on.
Other than that, I also loved the general story and the themes of the book. Like I said before, we’ve all had to make serious changes in the last year. So, this book’s message about adapting and embracing change is definitely relevant. I also loved the family dynamics; I thought Harry’s relationship with his parents was very well-written.
Also, as a final note, I found the setting so interesting. I mean, obviously, the concept of living in the Canadian wilderness is just neat, to begin with, but I definitely think that aspect of the book lived up to my expectations. I was looking forward to seeing some cool nature stuff, and Blackwell definitely delivered on that front. Seriously, I haven’t hiked in a while since it’s winter, but this story had me ready to brave the cold for a winter-time hike! (And I read this right after Natural Born, so it was a double-dose of nature-themed reading that slammed me.)
TL,DR Recommendation
All things considered, I definitely recommend this one! I’m certain kids would love this; it’s short, sweet, and fun, but it also has a great message. I also think Harry is easy to relate to, which is always a great thing for the main character to be! And if you or your kids do end up picking this one up, let me know your thoughts! I’d love to hear them!
Find a copy here!
