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Phil Leader (619 KP) rated The World in Johnny's Back Garden in Books

Nov 28, 2019

The World in Johnny's Back Garden

Kurt Chambers | 2017 | Contemporary, Fiction & Poetry, Natural World, Young Adult (YA)

10.0

(1 Ratings)

Book Rating

I was lucky enough for the author to let me have a preview of this book while he was toying with publishing it. I am very glad that he did because it is rare for a book to be so engrossing from beginning to end while running through so many different themes and emotions.

The plot revolves around Johnny, a more-or-less ordinary boy who is a bit of a loner at school. One day he decides to offer to help the old lady next door - Masie - with her garden. Everyone at school calls her a witch and throws stones at her house but that doesn't deter Johnny.

From this point forward the narrative takes Johnny through a range of experiences showing how his narrow existence could be so much richer if he took more notice of the things around him. This is literally mind expanding and life-changing for Johnny, although he must accept the hardships that come with his new friendship and knowledge.

The result is a fantastic read for both young adults and older, gently suggesting a sound ecological message without labouring it and without sugar coating any of life's ups and downs. Johnny experiences much throughout the book but ends up a stronger and better person for it. The reader goes with him on his journey every step of the way.

This is the kind of book that makes me wish I could award 11 stars out of 10 and will always be a favourite of mine. The only way this book could be any better would be for it to be the start of a series.

Kudos

Gareth von Kallenbach (980 KP) rated Midnight Special (2016) in Movies

Aug 6, 2019

Midnight Special (2016)

2016 | Drama, Sci-Fi

7.3

(4 Ratings)

Movie Rating

As children, we often fantasize about what it would be like to possess superpowers or some trait that sets us further apart from our peers. We imagine ourselves as being able to become invisible, fly, or command animals. The film Midnight Special introduces us to a young boy who is blessed with a special gift that no one can quite comprehend. A religious cult seeks the boy as their savior. The government wants to use him as a weapon. His father wants to protect him.

The film gives the audience enough suspense and relevant issues to keep them fully engrossed in the story. The opening of the film leaves us with very little background of the events that have taken place which for many films would be a grand weakness in the storytelling, however, for this film it is essential in shaping the dramatic moments as it builds to the climax. Midnight Special features strong performances from Adam Driver and Michael Shannon. Director Jeff Nichols does a superb job in weaving a story that is both original and imaginative. The film itself is a journey involving various elements that drive the story. For some, it will make them more skeptical of the government and religious fanaticism. For others, they will have a new take on the road film genre which is filled with peril, tension, friendship, and love.

Midnight Special is one of those rare movies that allows the viewers to become fully involved in the story and characters involved. With the suspense, humor, and interactions, the actors and director have made a complete film. It stays with you and makes you want more.