Review: The Legend of Vysallimore

Book Details

Title: The Legend of Vysallimore 
Author: Mike Hemingway
Genre: children's
Page Count: 72
Publishing Info: Authorhouse, August 6, 2010

My Review
Why I read it: received review copy
Review: This book is a little different than most of the books I review.  I don't usually do children's books, especially picture books.  I sat down with my boys to read this one, and I really think it needs to be read aloud.  It's basically in poetry form, and I'm not usually a fan of poetry, but the writing here was beautiful.  I have to admit, my boys wandered off to play about halfway through, but I still sat there, reading it aloud to myself.  There was something magical about this tale, and I read to the end with a lump in my throat.  I've never found myself emotionally invested in a children's book.
There are illustrations, and that helped for awhile to keep my kids interested, but it's really not a picture book--it's more of an epic tale.  It's a tale about family love, honor, and doing what must be done, even when it's hard.
Here's a small taste of the book:

Now Elgrid, please embrace your kin,

Yes, hold your children close,

And open up your heart to them.

And say what means the most.

And ask them of their hopes and dreams,

And ask what makes them cry.

And say how much you love them,

And why that love won't die.

And listen to the little things,

Hear what they want to say.

To take this time is how to find

The power you seek today. 

I really loved this one, and it'll be one that I read again and again when I'm in the mood for a beautiful, poetic tale.  You can find this book at Amazon and Authorhouse.

Grade: A
Cover Thoughts: This cover is by the same artist as the pictures inside.  It's not the best artwork I've ever seen, but it works for this story.