Book review: A Wizard of Dreams (MYRDDIN'S HEIR) series by Robin Chambers
Without doubt A Wizard of Dreams by Robin Chambers is an excellent book for parents to read to children from the age of 7, and for children themselves to read from the age of around 10. This book has a variety of moral vignettes that possess good educational values for young readers, their parents, guardians and mentors. Gordon (the protagonist) has an unseen friend (at least to the naked eye) named Zack. Together they take on the personas of young superheroes - teaching school bullies and immature tyrants not to mess with well-behaved kids. Otherwise, the wrath of Zack, in the guise of Gordon, would befall them.
Throughout the course of reading this book, I couldn't help but wonder to what extent the story was derived from Mr. Chambers’ memories of his childhood years - growing up in a similar kind of environment and encountering the sort of situations that Gordon and Zack experience. Now that the author is a grandparent, he is writing his MYRDDIN'S HEIR series as a fantasy version of'Remembrance of things past': to pass on his valuable life's lessons to children the world over.
When all is said and done, this is a wonderful, exemplary book. Not only will it entice every child's active imagination, it also conveys ethical messages to parents and educators - to listen and to pay heed to the voices of the young.
By Bernard Foong (aka Young)
Charming...Amusing...Well Written
One gets the feeling that the author Robin Chambers was writing this book for his own grandchildren. I say that because it is written in a tender, caring and loving manner. Chambers was a teacher and several chapters feature the book's protagonist (Gordon) as he navigates his way through the typical classroom pitfalls of bullies and all manner of unfairness. I think as a teacher it was important for Chambers to have his teaching moment for his young audience. It is the sort of book that would be great for parents to read to their younger children as I think it would benefit parents greatly.
At times I wanted the book to move faster. By the second half of the book when Gordon was around ten years old the book became interesting, exciting and more imaginative. I like this book very much and highly recommend it. A good read indeed!
By Walter Bissett.
