Children's Book Review: Brambleheart: A Story About Finding Treasure and the Unexpected Magic of Friendship by Henry Cole

Publisher Description:

From the beloved illustrator and author of A Nest for Celeste comes Brambleheart, a beautiful tale about nature, imagination, and how love is the greatest thing we build. With stunning black-and-white artwork and a gorgeous package, Henry Cole’s animal fantasy adventure harkens back to Brian Jacques’s Redwall and Avi’s Poppy series.

In the Hill, animals work as Weavers, Smelters, and Carvers—but Twig doesn’t know who he wants to be. He tries very hard in all his classes, but his imagination wanders to his favorite books or the delicious mayapples growing beyond the scavenge yard . . .  and then he loses his focus. After Twig makes a big mistake in front of everyone, he sets out on a secret journey to discover himself. But as he wanders deeper into the Yard than he’s ever wandered before, Twig finds a curious colored globe. A dragon’s egg—which hatches in front of his eyes.

Now protecting the baby dragon is all Twig wants to do. But when he learns that his secret might hurt others, he’s forced to make a choice between his place in the world and the feelings in his heart.

The first in a duology, Brambleheart is  beloved illustrator and author Henry Cole’s beautiful story about  nature, imagination,  and how love is the greatest thing we build.

My Review:

It's so hard to find your place in the world. Can you imagine being a chipmunk who lacks the skills required to succeed? Brambleheart is a book for children that encourages acceptance and love. Twig, the main character, is adorable. I fell in love with this little guy as soon as I started reading his delightful story. He's much like any child who has gone through school and faced bullies, found fantastic friends, and lived through challenges. I cheered for him as he faced his troubles head on and worried for him as he tried to figure out what to do when he was caught in a quandary. Henry Cole's attractive illustrations add whimsy and beauty to an already delightful story. Brambleheart is a duology, the first of two books. I can't wait to read the next one. This would be a great read aloud. Much like Winnie-the-Pooh, the animals have big hearts and personalities to match.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.