I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young boy wakes to discover the story his grandmother has told him about Candy Mountain is real in the children’s book “Will’s Adventure to the Candy Mountain” by author Dr. Gerry Haller and illustrated by YM Cho.
The Synopsis
Will’s Grandmother has told Will about the Candy Mountain since he was a small child. One night Will is awakened by the Conductor of a train. He is told to hurry to catch the train. “What train?” “The train to the Candy Mountain, of course.” On the train, he meets a boy named Quinn and they decide to go on the adventure together. He can hardly believe he is going to the Candy Mountain. Together there are many decisions they have to make, each more mysterious than the other. What will they find?
The Review
This was such a fun and engaging children’s book. The author thoughtfully and memorably conveyed the sense of magic and wonder children dream about. The book’s fast pace didn’t ever feel rushed, but instead allowed the reader to discover each new land and experience that the main characters found simultaneously.
Often in books, especially children’s books, readers seek to understand or engage with the more profound lesson or meaning behind the story, and there were so many in this book for younger readers to engage with. From the power of friendship and the rewarding nature of sharing to the more profound lesson of dreaming big and never being afraid of new adventures, this book had an outstanding balance of lessons to learn from.
The Verdict
A beautiful blend of The Polar Express meets Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, author Dr. Gerry Haller’s “Will’s Adventure to the Candy Mountain” is a must-read children’s book. With warm and vibrant artwork from YM Cho and a whimsical sense of adventure, this book will significantly bring parents and children together. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
Author Dr. Gerry Haller is an accomplished educator having received many awards in the teaching, curriculum, and administrative fields. Some of these awards include being recognized for The Golden Apple, The Carnegie Foundation for her teaching in the Inner City of Chicago, and receiving the Phi Delta Kappa Award for being outstanding Principal of the Year. Dr. Haller received Primary, Gifted and Art Degrees form Bradley University, Master’s in Administration from Augustana, and Doctor of Education from Nova Southeastern University. She is a gifted public speaker and has presented at conferences from London to the U.S. Throughout her career, she has taught principals, teachers, and children. Dr. Haller is also a proud mother and grandmother.
About the Illustrator
YM Cho is an award-winning artist and designer. She earned a BFA degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where she studied visual communications and fashion illustration. YM has been named the winner of several art and design competitions, including the 2017 Leavenworth Oktoberfest Logo Design, 2017 Navy Air Force Half Marathon shirt design, 2019 Seward Silver Salmon Derby Logo Design, and the 93rd Running Mount Marathon Logo Design.
https://drgerryhallerbooks.com/
