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The Sun Zebra
The four Nell stories that marveled readers at Scribd.com are put together here for the first time in this collection, which also includes an all-new story, "Birdman and the Fairy Tale." Here are some of the comments made about the stories:
The Sun Zebra
Dad's raising a poet! There were two roads he could have taken with her; he went to look for the zebra, "and that has made all the difference". I'm a Little Nell fan. She reminds me that one of the most valuable things I do as a mother is to respect, and foster their imaginative growth, even if I can't really put my finger on how that's accomplished...it's just as important as giving them meals and clean clothes and all that other concrete stuff.
Helen Winslow Black, author of "Seven Blackbirds"
Bob the Intrepid Insectnaut!
I love it! Bob kissed the sky and went where no bug has gone before! And you have woven a tall tale out of whole cloth. Beam us up for another story, please!
Laura Novak, author of "Finding Clarity"
Bob is one awesome cicada ~ but, Nell has it all over him.
Suzanne McLain Rosenwasser, columnist and author of "Manhasset Stories" and the forthcoming novel "Don't Ya Know"
Raven-Lenore
Another delightful Nell story! I loved it. And I loved her conclusion. I'll say "yes" to that! ...dancing and bowing in the eternal breeze. Thanks for a wonderful read!
Sunny Lockwood, author of "Shades of Love, stories from the heart"
A sad and tender story, beautifully told.
Barbara Alfaro, author of "Mirror Talk" and "Singing Magic"
The Meaningless Christmas Tree
A lovely Christmas story. Thanks for sharing it with us, a real treat to read during the season.
Rayanda, artist and author of the Rane Lavita mystery series.
This book is best described as a children's book for grownups. Its aim is to encourage us to discover (or rediscover) the amazing things that children and their magical carefree world can teach us, even as we try to teach them about the harsh realities of our own. The book is a collection of five stories that follow the "adventures in living" of an unusual little girl called Nell, her mother Rhonda, and Nell's father who is the narrator of the stories.
The Sun Zebra
Dad's raising a poet! There were two roads he could have taken with her; he went to look for the zebra, "and that has made all the difference". I'm a Little Nell fan. She reminds me that one of the most valuable things I do as a mother is to respect, and foster their imaginative growth, even if I can't really put my finger on how that's accomplished...it's just as important as giving them meals and clean clothes and all that other concrete stuff.
Helen Winslow Black, author of "Seven Blackbirds"
Bob the Intrepid Insectnaut!
I love it! Bob kissed the sky and went where no bug has gone before! And you have woven a tall tale out of whole cloth. Beam us up for another story, please!
Laura Novak, author of "Finding Clarity"
Bob is one awesome cicada ~ but, Nell has it all over him.
Suzanne McLain Rosenwasser, columnist and author of "Manhasset Stories" and the forthcoming novel "Don't Ya Know"
Raven-Lenore
Another delightful Nell story! I loved it. And I loved her conclusion. I'll say "yes" to that! ...dancing and bowing in the eternal breeze. Thanks for a wonderful read!
Sunny Lockwood, author of "Shades of Love, stories from the heart"
A sad and tender story, beautifully told.
Barbara Alfaro, author of "Mirror Talk" and "Singing Magic"
The Meaningless Christmas Tree
A lovely Christmas story. Thanks for sharing it with us, a real treat to read during the season.
Rayanda, artist and author of the Rane Lavita mystery series.
This book is best described as a children's book for grownups. Its aim is to encourage us to discover (or rediscover) the amazing things that children and their magical carefree world can teach us, even as we try to teach them about the harsh realities of our own. The book is a collection of five stories that follow the "adventures in living" of an unusual little girl called Nell, her mother Rhonda, and Nell's father who is the narrator of the stories.
- GenresFictionShort Stories
Kindle Edition
First published November 18, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
March 22, 2013
Nell, the little girl who is the star of these stories, is a delight. She thinks deeply about things and comes up with the kind of responses to situations that could only come from a young child. The stories take you back to a time when you, or perhaps your children, were very young. They embody the freshness of early childhood and show clearly the different perspective a child has on the world.
The author is an excellent writer. In these few short stories, he manages to draw Nell and her father clearly. Mr Smith, a war veteran, is another noteworthy character, and his story of a Christmas tree with meaning is perhaps my favourite of them all.
I enjoyed all the stories, due to their light touch, the gentle and caring adults, the sweet innocence of Nell and the inventive nature of the stories.
My second favourite is the Sun Zebra in which Nell sees a Zebra which she is very excited about, but when she takes her father to see it, there is nothing there but an old horse. They return several times, the adults sure that there is no Zebra, but Nell insists that there is. The author paints a beautiful picture of a young child wanting to be believed and the tale shows how literal and dull we adults can be on our interpretation of what we see.
The story of Bob the cicada also brought a smile to my face. The image of the poor insect stuck in a bit of paper attached to a balloon is certainly unusual, and the story woven around Nell's desire for Bob to fly is very sweet and has an unexpected outcome.
I recommend this book for any time you want something light and sweet. It's a short book, so good for reading between longer works.
The author is an excellent writer. In these few short stories, he manages to draw Nell and her father clearly. Mr Smith, a war veteran, is another noteworthy character, and his story of a Christmas tree with meaning is perhaps my favourite of them all.
I enjoyed all the stories, due to their light touch, the gentle and caring adults, the sweet innocence of Nell and the inventive nature of the stories.
My second favourite is the Sun Zebra in which Nell sees a Zebra which she is very excited about, but when she takes her father to see it, there is nothing there but an old horse. They return several times, the adults sure that there is no Zebra, but Nell insists that there is. The author paints a beautiful picture of a young child wanting to be believed and the tale shows how literal and dull we adults can be on our interpretation of what we see.
The story of Bob the cicada also brought a smile to my face. The image of the poor insect stuck in a bit of paper attached to a balloon is certainly unusual, and the story woven around Nell's desire for Bob to fly is very sweet and has an unexpected outcome.
I recommend this book for any time you want something light and sweet. It's a short book, so good for reading between longer works.
July 18, 2012
For my complete review visit Perpetual Chaos of a Wandering Mind
The Sun Zebra by Rolando Garcia is a charming little anthology written by a father enchanted with his young daughter, an exploration into the vibrant world of a child's imagination. Only 66 pages long, it's a quick read as we encounter with little Nell a family farm awash in a vibrant sunset; a aeronautically challenged cicada, a balloon and a kindly ornithologist; a bold and intrepid squirrel invoking Edgar Allen Poe; a Charlie Brown Christmas tree seemingly outshone by the competition; and an artist in a park particularly tuned in to the world of fairies. Each experience provides Nell a new opportunity to teach her parents (and us) important lessons in life, or, at the very least, inspire contemplation in daughter and introspection in dad.
Mr. Garcia writes in an easy, conversational style: Hey, how ya doin'? Come on out to the deck, grab a Coke, and shoot the breeze while the kids chase each other around the yard. Each vignette left a smile on my face, and Birdman and the Fairy Tale made me laugh out loud so the other people in the doctor's waiting room eyed me funny.
The Sun Zebra by Rolando Garcia is a charming little anthology written by a father enchanted with his young daughter, an exploration into the vibrant world of a child's imagination. Only 66 pages long, it's a quick read as we encounter with little Nell a family farm awash in a vibrant sunset; a aeronautically challenged cicada, a balloon and a kindly ornithologist; a bold and intrepid squirrel invoking Edgar Allen Poe; a Charlie Brown Christmas tree seemingly outshone by the competition; and an artist in a park particularly tuned in to the world of fairies. Each experience provides Nell a new opportunity to teach her parents (and us) important lessons in life, or, at the very least, inspire contemplation in daughter and introspection in dad.
Mr. Garcia writes in an easy, conversational style: Hey, how ya doin'? Come on out to the deck, grab a Coke, and shoot the breeze while the kids chase each other around the yard. Each vignette left a smile on my face, and Birdman and the Fairy Tale made me laugh out loud so the other people in the doctor's waiting room eyed me funny.
December 17, 2011
A delightful collection of short stories recounted by a father chronicling the explorations of his daughter Nell. Nell is a very thoughtful, contemplative and questioning little girl who sees things thru the eyes of childhood innocence. These stories will charm and mesmerize as you are engaged in each story from the father's point of view as well as Nell's point of view.
The stories contained in this book are:
The Sun Zebra
Bob The Intrepid Insectnaut
Raven - Lenore
The Meaningless Christmas Tree
Birdman and The Fairy Tale
Each of these delightful tales manages to convey to a child the meaning of life, heartbreak, death, love and the true meaning of the things we create and hold dear. I found myself laughing and feeling the frustration and satisfaction of a parent trying to explain life in a way that a child can understand.
You will be gratified by the special connection this father has with his daughter and the love they share.
This is a book for adults and a book for parents to read with their children. This book is written with a tender humor and a genuine compassion for the importance of the feelings and emotions of a child.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from Phantomimic.
The stories contained in this book are:
The Sun Zebra
Bob The Intrepid Insectnaut
Raven - Lenore
The Meaningless Christmas Tree
Birdman and The Fairy Tale
Each of these delightful tales manages to convey to a child the meaning of life, heartbreak, death, love and the true meaning of the things we create and hold dear. I found myself laughing and feeling the frustration and satisfaction of a parent trying to explain life in a way that a child can understand.
You will be gratified by the special connection this father has with his daughter and the love they share.
This is a book for adults and a book for parents to read with their children. This book is written with a tender humor and a genuine compassion for the importance of the feelings and emotions of a child.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from Phantomimic.
October 31, 2012
A lovely collection of short stories penned by a father, Rolando Garcia’s The Sun Zebra is sweet, interesting, soothing and fun. Where another adult might feel too old or too serious to play, this father sits down among the toys, runs around the playground, and allows his imagination to delight in his daughter’s mysteries. Can there really be a zebra on the farm? He’s willing to look—well, willing might be a strong word for it but he knows it’s probably his turn. Mother, father and daughter form a perfectly ordinary family, made extraordinary by the light of the author’s pen and the generous spirit of a parent’s words.
Refreshing, told in an honest self-deprecating voice, with pleasing reminiscences of the author's own childhood interspersed in present experience, this collection of five short tales is easy to pick up, hard to put down, and as bright and lively as sunshine falling on flowers. The dialog’s natural, the childhood mysteries are genuine, and the writing’s beautifully lyrical. Plus each story really does have a gentle surprise in its tail, and there really might be zebras on the farm if we look for them.
Disclosure: I received a free ecopy of this book from the author and promised an honest review. I’m just sorry it took me so long.
May 23, 2012
All well-crafted short stories should strive to make a single emotional impact on the reader. On that count, The Sun Zebra delivers. Rolando Garcia’s collection of five stories offers endearing glimpses into the little moments that can impart lasting life lessons when seen through the eyes of a child. Love is what connects and binds us to each other in this thing called life and in Garcia’s touching stories.
The title story not only effectively communicates a child-like sense of wonder, it also contains excellent imagery. “Bob the Intrepid Insectnaut” manages to combine sorrow and humor effectively, although the father’s narrative voice feels too intrusive at times. The premise of “Raven-Lenore” intrigues with its interplay between Poe’s famous poem and daughter Nell’s squirrely counterpart, but the structure needs tweaking. “The Meaningless Christmas Tree” achieves effective characterization with the old man and his ugly tree and demonstrates the author can also deftly render intriguing adult characters. Finally, “Birdman and the Fairy Tale” showcases the author’s knack for illustrating how a child can mull a moment over in their mind and how adults can learn a lot from their children.
Rolando Garcia’s storytelling gift lies in beautifully communicated thematic elements. As a fellow lover of the short story form, I am happily anticipating further work from this author. As a perpetual student and teacher of the craft of the genre, I would recommend more showing and less telling, adding more dialogue, and heightening setting details. It will be interesting to see where his story-telling journey takes him.
JeriWB.com Teacher Writer Traveler
The title story not only effectively communicates a child-like sense of wonder, it also contains excellent imagery. “Bob the Intrepid Insectnaut” manages to combine sorrow and humor effectively, although the father’s narrative voice feels too intrusive at times. The premise of “Raven-Lenore” intrigues with its interplay between Poe’s famous poem and daughter Nell’s squirrely counterpart, but the structure needs tweaking. “The Meaningless Christmas Tree” achieves effective characterization with the old man and his ugly tree and demonstrates the author can also deftly render intriguing adult characters. Finally, “Birdman and the Fairy Tale” showcases the author’s knack for illustrating how a child can mull a moment over in their mind and how adults can learn a lot from their children.
Rolando Garcia’s storytelling gift lies in beautifully communicated thematic elements. As a fellow lover of the short story form, I am happily anticipating further work from this author. As a perpetual student and teacher of the craft of the genre, I would recommend more showing and less telling, adding more dialogue, and heightening setting details. It will be interesting to see where his story-telling journey takes him.
JeriWB.com Teacher Writer Traveler
May 16, 2012
Kindle Version (free from author for honest review)
This is a book filled with short stories that will touch anyone who reads them! I am not normally a fan of books with short stories in them, I really don’t know why, I just like a book with longer plots I guess. This book however…I LOVED IT!!! This book is great for adults, kids, and adults that are still kids at heart. The stories in it were absolutely wonderful! I found myself smiling or chuckling through most of them and thinking how Nell, the little girl, is so much like my own son. Nell is very inquisitive and likes to ponder things for far longer than most children and really takes things to heart. I think the other thing that made me dive right in was the fact that all the short stories involved the same people, they just were different times in their lives.
By far my favorite stories were The Sun Zebra and The Meaningless Christmas Tree. If I had to pick a single favorite one, The Sun Zebra wins hands down. This short story is one that took on a lot of meaning to me. It was one that I could see my son having done. This story reminded me and will all readers I think, that it is all about how you look at things and your perspective on things that makes you who you are and life what it is. This book is a MUST MUST READ for anyone and everyone! It was extremely well written and contained amazing stories. I can’t give this book enough praise, you really must experience it for yourself. So, go out there and read The Sun Zebra, you won’t be sorry.
10/5 Stars!!! It was such a great book, it belongs off my star chart.
This is a book filled with short stories that will touch anyone who reads them! I am not normally a fan of books with short stories in them, I really don’t know why, I just like a book with longer plots I guess. This book however…I LOVED IT!!! This book is great for adults, kids, and adults that are still kids at heart. The stories in it were absolutely wonderful! I found myself smiling or chuckling through most of them and thinking how Nell, the little girl, is so much like my own son. Nell is very inquisitive and likes to ponder things for far longer than most children and really takes things to heart. I think the other thing that made me dive right in was the fact that all the short stories involved the same people, they just were different times in their lives.
By far my favorite stories were The Sun Zebra and The Meaningless Christmas Tree. If I had to pick a single favorite one, The Sun Zebra wins hands down. This short story is one that took on a lot of meaning to me. It was one that I could see my son having done. This story reminded me and will all readers I think, that it is all about how you look at things and your perspective on things that makes you who you are and life what it is. This book is a MUST MUST READ for anyone and everyone! It was extremely well written and contained amazing stories. I can’t give this book enough praise, you really must experience it for yourself. So, go out there and read The Sun Zebra, you won’t be sorry.
10/5 Stars!!! It was such a great book, it belongs off my star chart.
July 22, 2012
Thoughts: Imaginative and refreshingly magical. This is a collection of short story written by a father through the eyes of his child. The first story is the title of the book where little Nell is adamant that she has seen a zebra in the stables but once her parents get there all they see is a regular old horse. She is sad about it and wants to go back each day of until the final day something magical happens, they see the Sun Zebra. It is a book for adults but written in a child-like manner to give a sense of how simple and matter of fact life is for a child. It has in its essence the purity and innocence of youth. It covers topics of life, death, charity, and love. It is a great reminder to remember the simplicity and honesty of youth. At one point the father has to explain death to the child and where people go and he states that as adults we carry the burden of truth for them because they aren't quite capable of dealing with it themselves. However, after seeing the world through Nell's eyes, I think they are able to deal with things a lot better than adults. Nell's honesty and realizations are beautiful. My favorite story is the Christmas Tree, where Nell has entered a tree decorating contest and goes around looking at the other entrants until she comes to this scrawny ugly tree with random stuff on it. Nell tells the owner that his tree is ugly and that her tree is pretty. His reply stumps her when he asks her the meaning of her tree. I really liked the life lesson in this story. Overall, this is a cute read for anyone that wants a touch of that childhood magic, even just for a moment.3.5 stars
August 16, 2014
It is difficult for me to decide which of the five stories in this collection I like best because each is charming, original, and filled with a gentle humor and each is about the little girl Nell, her loving mother Rhonda, and her thoughtful father, the narrator. The stories are for adults and for children but they are not stories with the magic of fairy tales or Harry Potter adventures. They contain another and equally wonderful magic, that of reality, specifically, nature. In “The Sun Zebra,” we view an old horse in a new way; in “Bob the Intrepid Insectnaut,” we meet a special cicada named Bob; and, in “Raven-Lenore,” we are introduced to a chubby squirrel that Poe himself might have been amused by. And we see them through the eyes of Nell, the delightful child star of all the stories and, the rich imagination of her father. “Raven-Lenore” is also a tender and beautiful portrait of a father’s love for his daughter.
In the last two stories, “The Meaningless Christmas Tree” and “Birdman and the Fairy Tale,” the author abandons critters for our own species. In the former we meet a World War II veteran with a humble and generous heart. And in “Birdman and the Fairy Tale,” we get a closer look into the author’s heart when he muses about aging. In this story he refers to himself as “one feeble Big Bad Wolf” and perhaps that is so but he is certainly one hell of a writer. There is so much love echoing through these stories – love of family and love of nature – they are a joy to read.
In the last two stories, “The Meaningless Christmas Tree” and “Birdman and the Fairy Tale,” the author abandons critters for our own species. In the former we meet a World War II veteran with a humble and generous heart. And in “Birdman and the Fairy Tale,” we get a closer look into the author’s heart when he muses about aging. In this story he refers to himself as “one feeble Big Bad Wolf” and perhaps that is so but he is certainly one hell of a writer. There is so much love echoing through these stories – love of family and love of nature – they are a joy to read.
August 29, 2016
The Sun Zebra is a collection of five short stories written by R. Garcia. They are wonderful stories about the adventures in the life of a little girl, Nell, and her parents, and are told by her father. Perhaps this does not sound very intriguing, but don’t be fooled. Mr. Garcia writes with heart and humour, drawing the reader in as he cleverly tells his tale in an entertaining way, giving the reader the feeling of being there.
Five stories. Five adventures:
The Sun Zebra – after which the book was named;
Bob the Intrepid Insectnaut!;
Raven-Lenore;
The Meaningless Christmas Tree;
Birdman and the Fairy Tale
The preface begins, “This book is best described as a children’s book for grownups.” – and that’s a great way to begin. Each story inspires the reader to look at the seemingly insignificant things in life a little differently, and challenges one to see through the innocent eyes and understanding of a curious and thoughtful young child. As a delightful and easy read The Sun Zebra is enjoyable, interesting, funny, thought-provoking.
R. Garcia also writes under the pen name of Phantomimic. He has a following on Scribd.com where he shares his work, and which encouraged him to write a book. The Sun Zebra is the result of that decision. It is well worth his effort and a pleasure to read.
Five stories. Five adventures:
The Sun Zebra – after which the book was named;
Bob the Intrepid Insectnaut!;
Raven-Lenore;
The Meaningless Christmas Tree;
Birdman and the Fairy Tale
The preface begins, “This book is best described as a children’s book for grownups.” – and that’s a great way to begin. Each story inspires the reader to look at the seemingly insignificant things in life a little differently, and challenges one to see through the innocent eyes and understanding of a curious and thoughtful young child. As a delightful and easy read The Sun Zebra is enjoyable, interesting, funny, thought-provoking.
R. Garcia also writes under the pen name of Phantomimic. He has a following on Scribd.com where he shares his work, and which encouraged him to write a book. The Sun Zebra is the result of that decision. It is well worth his effort and a pleasure to read.
April 19, 2012
The Sun Zebra by R. Garcia is a collection of stories told by a father about his young daughter and their daily antics. Five stories about extraordinary circumstances and the meaning behind them.
Garcia's writing captures the reader. I was drawn right into the story and was surprised with the outcome. The family connection I felt was strong but very natural. The characters felt real, flawed, beautiful, and surprising.
The stories were a little bit too soap-boxy. The morals were point blank told to the reader. Granted, there was a lot of showing, a lot of stark, sweet moments, but the telling would creep back in and I was honestly frustrated. The stories touched me; they hit a nerve, but they would have snuck even deeper into my heart and mind if I was left thinking about them instead of being told what to think.
One note about the cover art: stunning, simply stunning.
R. Garcia parodied Poe in a very clever way. He showed what it's like to have the mind of a child. I really can't wait for more from this author. In the end, the stories were thoroughly enjoyable. I never wanted to stop reading, and I was left with a smile on my face.
I received this book from the author for review.
Garcia's writing captures the reader. I was drawn right into the story and was surprised with the outcome. The family connection I felt was strong but very natural. The characters felt real, flawed, beautiful, and surprising.
The stories were a little bit too soap-boxy. The morals were point blank told to the reader. Granted, there was a lot of showing, a lot of stark, sweet moments, but the telling would creep back in and I was honestly frustrated. The stories touched me; they hit a nerve, but they would have snuck even deeper into my heart and mind if I was left thinking about them instead of being told what to think.
One note about the cover art: stunning, simply stunning.
R. Garcia parodied Poe in a very clever way. He showed what it's like to have the mind of a child. I really can't wait for more from this author. In the end, the stories were thoroughly enjoyable. I never wanted to stop reading, and I was left with a smile on my face.
I received this book from the author for review.
September 22, 2012
I just loved the stories in this book. Nell is such a dear, sweet little girl who is so inquisitive and smart. I just fell in love with her. And her mother and father are awesome parents who nurture her, love her and encourage her.
There are five stories in The Sun Zebra and each one is more magical then the next. All of the stories take Nell's imagination and curiosity about the world to teach us grown-ups some life lessons. All of them are wonderful but I would have to say that The Sun Zebra and The Meaningless Christmas Tree are my favorites and stuck with me long after I was done reading them.
Even though I am an adult and love reading grown-up books, I also love delving into children's books. This one is the best of both worlds. These are great stories that show a child's imagination and wonder at work and at the same time they contain words of wisdom for all of us.
Such beautiful writing, such beautiful stories. Thanks R. Garcia for the Nell stories, I would love to read more!
There are five stories in The Sun Zebra and each one is more magical then the next. All of the stories take Nell's imagination and curiosity about the world to teach us grown-ups some life lessons. All of them are wonderful but I would have to say that The Sun Zebra and The Meaningless Christmas Tree are my favorites and stuck with me long after I was done reading them.
Even though I am an adult and love reading grown-up books, I also love delving into children's books. This one is the best of both worlds. These are great stories that show a child's imagination and wonder at work and at the same time they contain words of wisdom for all of us.
Such beautiful writing, such beautiful stories. Thanks R. Garcia for the Nell stories, I would love to read more!
December 29, 2012
This book is a bit different from anything I've read. The stories revolve around the narrator and his family (especially his daughter, Nell, and her imagination). Each chapter is basically its own story and tells some part of their life. The stories seem to have a moral-type ending or something to ponder. I found them enjoyable, though this is not the usual sort of book I read.
My favorite story was the first, "The Sun Zebra," as I thought it really captured childhood and what we forget as we get older. I did, however, have problems with some things in some of the stories. There were a few times I had issues with decisions the narrator made in terms of protecting his child and her feelings (especially the second story), instead of taking an opportunity to teach right from wrong. However, things turned out okay in the end, but life unfortunately doesn't always work out that way.
Still, even with that minor complaint, I still found the stories enjoyable and it is a quick and easy read. I was given a free copy of this book by the author for an honest review.
My favorite story was the first, "The Sun Zebra," as I thought it really captured childhood and what we forget as we get older. I did, however, have problems with some things in some of the stories. There were a few times I had issues with decisions the narrator made in terms of protecting his child and her feelings (especially the second story), instead of taking an opportunity to teach right from wrong. However, things turned out okay in the end, but life unfortunately doesn't always work out that way.
Still, even with that minor complaint, I still found the stories enjoyable and it is a quick and easy read. I was given a free copy of this book by the author for an honest review.
March 10, 2023
Heartwarming
Fun and easy read. This was a sweet book that makes me appreciate my little ones while they are still little.
Fun and easy read. This was a sweet book that makes me appreciate my little ones while they are still little.
December 17, 2011
In the title story of this delightful ebook, "The Sun Zebra," author Pantomimic, takes the reader to Grandma's farm in Pennsylvania "located in a long valley between two sets of mountains...that turn the valley into an echo chamber where any loud noise bounces several times from one mountain to the other..." and where little Nell discovers a zebra. The author weaves a delightful tale, and if you have a kid in your family who likes bugs, as I have, "Bob the Intrepid Insectanaut!" is for you, and it comes with a simplified etymology of cicadas. For the season, there's "The Meaningless Christmas Tree" in which the adventuresome Nell takes an old soldier on a journey to see her Christmas tree and ends up giving him so much of herself that her tree becomes meaning-filled. There are seven stories in all - perfect fare, when loaded on your Kindle, to read with a child while everyone else is cleaning the kitchen this holiday season.
September 27, 2012
A collection of short stories with unpredictable endings is a description of, The Sun Zebra. If anyone has ever read a review of mine, they know I value unpredictability as the key to great fiction.
The Sun Zebra is a perfect reminder for adults to open their minds and become kids again. To understand events, through the eyes of a child, is a wake-up call to the kid in all adults.
Each story is different, containing the elements of great writing. Nell is a precocious child, who possesses the ability to think critically, and analyze better than most adults. Her father is the epitome of a perfect dad, listening to her and allowing her to think. Her mother is the perfect balance to a loving marriage. Nell is lucky to be a child in this family.
My children are grown up, but this tiny book of wisdom will benefit me to augment my ability to be a better grandmother to my grandson. I thank R. Garcia for writing these pearls in, The Sun Zebra.
The Sun Zebra is a perfect reminder for adults to open their minds and become kids again. To understand events, through the eyes of a child, is a wake-up call to the kid in all adults.
Each story is different, containing the elements of great writing. Nell is a precocious child, who possesses the ability to think critically, and analyze better than most adults. Her father is the epitome of a perfect dad, listening to her and allowing her to think. Her mother is the perfect balance to a loving marriage. Nell is lucky to be a child in this family.
My children are grown up, but this tiny book of wisdom will benefit me to augment my ability to be a better grandmother to my grandson. I thank R. Garcia for writing these pearls in, The Sun Zebra.
October 29, 2012
This very slim book (standing at about 66 pages) contains several very cute stories about Nell, a little girl, and her parents. This book definitely took me back to when I was little. When you're little, you think of all sorts of amazing things to explain the world around you. You have a true sense of wonder about everything. I think that in some cases, we lose that when we grow up. It makes me really sad. This book is about the stories that little kids tell about everything! Nell definitely has the child-like wonder going for her.
A mix of fact and fiction, this book is truly charming. I loved the stories about the Sun Zebra and the Christmas Tree one. Both stories are very cute.
This is the kind of book that would be good to read when you need something a little funny but mostly comforting. This book will appeal to a variety of readers; pretty much anyone that has been a child will like this book!
Bottom line: A good, simple read about someplace we've all been!
A mix of fact and fiction, this book is truly charming. I loved the stories about the Sun Zebra and the Christmas Tree one. Both stories are very cute.
This is the kind of book that would be good to read when you need something a little funny but mostly comforting. This book will appeal to a variety of readers; pretty much anyone that has been a child will like this book!
Bottom line: A good, simple read about someplace we've all been!
June 11, 2012
This is a lovely collection of stories written by a father about his adventures with his young daughter, Nell. It is definitely a heartwarming book.
There is a beautiful sense of wonder in these stories. They are told in a manner that is fresh and light, yet they carry many levels of meaning. They each have their own style but they all capture the reader’s attention from the first sentences. I did find that a few of them could have been a bit more subtle in revealing the author’s meaning, but for the most part, they do a good job of sharing almost a moral without sounding preachy. My favorite was “The Meaningless Christmas Tree.” That story alone is worth buying the book for.
This book provides us with a lovely look into a relationship and for that I highly recommend it. This is a quick and delightful read.
There is a beautiful sense of wonder in these stories. They are told in a manner that is fresh and light, yet they carry many levels of meaning. They each have their own style but they all capture the reader’s attention from the first sentences. I did find that a few of them could have been a bit more subtle in revealing the author’s meaning, but for the most part, they do a good job of sharing almost a moral without sounding preachy. My favorite was “The Meaningless Christmas Tree.” That story alone is worth buying the book for.
This book provides us with a lovely look into a relationship and for that I highly recommend it. This is a quick and delightful read.
July 20, 2012
Did I enjoy this book: I really did enjoy this collection of short stories. It was a quick read...I finished it in about an hour or two.
The stories were short but very sweet. The stories found in The Sun Zebra would make any parent smile while they are reading them...or even cry or laugh out loud.
My favorite story in this collection was "The Sun Zebra." It reminded me that we should cherish every moment we have with our children. We should listen to them - even if we think they are being ridiculous - because they will teach us something invaluable.
Would I recommend it: I would...especially if you are a parent.
Will I read it again: I will read it again...probably as my kids are growing up.
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The stories were short but very sweet. The stories found in The Sun Zebra would make any parent smile while they are reading them...or even cry or laugh out loud.
My favorite story in this collection was "The Sun Zebra." It reminded me that we should cherish every moment we have with our children. We should listen to them - even if we think they are being ridiculous - because they will teach us something invaluable.
Would I recommend it: I would...especially if you are a parent.
Will I read it again: I will read it again...probably as my kids are growing up.
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December 7, 2012
This book was such a dramatic change of pace from everything I've read recently that I was surprised by it. It was absolutely beautiful.
Told from the perspective of Nell's father, this collection of short stories are a perfect reminder that childhood is available to anyone brave enough to go out and take it. I felt like I had rediscovered childhood as an adult and came to realize that it is never out of reach. The stories emanate a warm, loving atmosphere conducive to creating smiles and satisfaction.
This is not an action packed page turner, but rather a thoughtful exploration of the important things in life. It is the type of book that you will want to read slowly, digesting each word and absorbing their meanings. It is a book that will leave you pondering and inspired to find joy in everyday miracles.
Please, treat yourself to this book.
Told from the perspective of Nell's father, this collection of short stories are a perfect reminder that childhood is available to anyone brave enough to go out and take it. I felt like I had rediscovered childhood as an adult and came to realize that it is never out of reach. The stories emanate a warm, loving atmosphere conducive to creating smiles and satisfaction.
This is not an action packed page turner, but rather a thoughtful exploration of the important things in life. It is the type of book that you will want to read slowly, digesting each word and absorbing their meanings. It is a book that will leave you pondering and inspired to find joy in everyday miracles.
Please, treat yourself to this book.
July 31, 2012
This collection of four stories are written from a father's perspective about his imaginative daughter, Nell. I found each story to be delightful and well-written! Each story was different and offered a unique perspective from a child's view and how she saw the world. I looked forward to each new story and I was not disappointed! These stories captivated my heart and my attention. It was a refreshing read for me and when I was finished I felt satisfied and happy! Mr. Garcia has a jewel on his hands and I am glad that I had the opportunity to view the world, for a small amount of time, through Nell's eyes. I will be on the look-out for my own sun zebra! Five stars!
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
April 28, 2012
The Sun Zebra is a charming book comprised of four memorizing tales told through a father's love of his child Nell, as she explores the world around her.
These charming tales will bring you back to your childhood as you watch Nell go on one imaginative adventure to the next.
They will truly make you smile and warm your heart.
This is a great book to read when you don't have a whole lot of time but want something that will make you smile and warm your heart, in fact, this would be a great summer read.
I highly recommend this one. I think anyone who tries it will really enjoy it. It is very well done.
These charming tales will bring you back to your childhood as you watch Nell go on one imaginative adventure to the next.
They will truly make you smile and warm your heart.
This is a great book to read when you don't have a whole lot of time but want something that will make you smile and warm your heart, in fact, this would be a great summer read.
I highly recommend this one. I think anyone who tries it will really enjoy it. It is very well done.
August 25, 2012
As dads and daughters go, we all know that there are love stories that could fill volumes. Phanto instead narrows his love down to four stories - - amazing stories, that is. While they seem randomly selected, biographically placed and factually narrated, the stories are extremely cohesive, leaving you with a tremendous sense of purpose. Each one starts out in an everyday setting tempting you to think: ahhh, darling pop loves his li'l princess... but don't be fooled. You might start out reading in the 'cute' mode, but you'll be thrust into deep thinking in no time. The Sun Zebra has the scope of touching your innermost being. I wish that every father could have a Nell.
September 12, 2012
From my Amazon review:
This short collection of stories rings true to me. As a loving father of an 8 year old daughter, I can relate to the experiences and tough questions that arise from a fertile and curious young mind.
The stories tend to harken back to an easier time, when life was more of what I believe it was meant to be. The important things are emphasized as life's little lessons are looked at in the context of fathers, daughters and family.
If the day to day, over the top features of today's fast world seem too much then take an hour or two and indulge yourself in The Sun Zebra. I guarantee you will emerge refreshed and inspired.
This short collection of stories rings true to me. As a loving father of an 8 year old daughter, I can relate to the experiences and tough questions that arise from a fertile and curious young mind.
The stories tend to harken back to an easier time, when life was more of what I believe it was meant to be. The important things are emphasized as life's little lessons are looked at in the context of fathers, daughters and family.
If the day to day, over the top features of today's fast world seem too much then take an hour or two and indulge yourself in The Sun Zebra. I guarantee you will emerge refreshed and inspired.
Read
March 25, 2017This is an enchanting book of short stories about a father and his daughter, often seen through the eyes of a child as well as the eyes of the father.
I loved this book. I loved all of the stories and it reminded me of my own children when they were little...and I look forward to similar adventures with my grandchildren.
The writing is clear, it is entertaining and the descriptions bring the story to life. The characters are enchanting. If they lived on my block, I would want to be friends with them.
I recommend it to anyone who wants to brighten their day with a smile.
Thank you Rolando Garcia for a wonderful read.
I loved this book. I loved all of the stories and it reminded me of my own children when they were little...and I look forward to similar adventures with my grandchildren.
The writing is clear, it is entertaining and the descriptions bring the story to life. The characters are enchanting. If they lived on my block, I would want to be friends with them.
I recommend it to anyone who wants to brighten their day with a smile.
Thank you Rolando Garcia for a wonderful read.
May 12, 2012
On the surface, Sun Zebra is a collection of heartwarming stories about events the lives of a father, mother, and their precocious daughter Nell. The stories are pleasant, funny, and delightful to read, but you quickly discover that they go much deeper than you anticipated when you first began reading them. Phantomimic writes with the voice of a poet and the heart of a philosopher. As you move from story to story, he takes you by the hand to examine some of the deepest issues of life. I recommend this book! -RDM
November 20, 2012
I am looking forward to reading many other things from this author! I thought this was a children's book, but it is actually a heartening, thoughtful reminder to keep the wonder in our lives, through the viewpoint of a brilliant, precocious child.
Mr. Garcia has a warm, inviting writing style, like the voice of a friend.
By the way, this is the first E-book I've read that was properly edited! Sentence structure, spelling, punctuation are all perfect. Shows the author's professional pride in his work and his family's adventures.
Mr. Garcia has a warm, inviting writing style, like the voice of a friend.
By the way, this is the first E-book I've read that was properly edited! Sentence structure, spelling, punctuation are all perfect. Shows the author's professional pride in his work and his family's adventures.
June 14, 2013
Having known Rolando Garcia for the past 3 years and reading his works on SCRIBD; all I can say is “The Sun Zebra” is a wonderfully and lovingly written tales of a beautiful and innocent childhood. Each story amazingly captures – fun, love, humor, emotions, imagination, and surprises. Rolando has realistically portrayed feelings of us adults, when we are among children. I was emotionally sent back to my childhood days, while reading this book. I highly recommend reading “The Sun Zebra” at least once and you’ll love to read it again.
May 2, 2013
Reminiscent of James Herriot's series of heart felt reminisces from his work as a veterinarian, R. Garcia takes us on a charming stroll through several joyful adventures he shared with his daughter Nell. Lovingly written, each tale shares their love, humor, and Nell's inventive and wonderful imagination. The collection brought back fond memories of my time with my own children, when youth brought out the marvels of a world full of surprises, puzzles and wonders. A lovely collection that all would enjoy!
July 8, 2013
The Sun Zebra is a small book packed with a big message. Told in the viewpoint of the father through the eyes of his daughter, The Sun Zebra is a treat!
Through five different small stories, Nell will find a place in your heart. Only through the eyes of an innocent child can we see the magic. As we grow older, we become more jaded. But where we see horses, a child may see a zebra! Taking off the lenses, Garcia writes a delightful tale for all ages, that will inspire, charm, warm your heart and make you laugh.
Only sixty-six pages but definitely a keeper!
Through five different small stories, Nell will find a place in your heart. Only through the eyes of an innocent child can we see the magic. As we grow older, we become more jaded. But where we see horses, a child may see a zebra! Taking off the lenses, Garcia writes a delightful tale for all ages, that will inspire, charm, warm your heart and make you laugh.
Only sixty-six pages but definitely a keeper!
April 24, 2012
A slightly strange read in that it is incredibly childlike but written in grown up language. The stories are really sweet though and I imagine if they were watered down significantly and then illustrated they could make decent books for children. I'm not quite sure who the target audience is otherwise. The stories are really great but a bit too childish for a grown up reader while also not written in a child-friendly language.
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