Book Review : Beachcombers
Who doesn’t long for an amazing adventure and that too on a beach with friends and fun? And how effectively can a book entertain and empower at the same time?
AAnswers to such questions lie embedded in the interesting story, lucid language, evocative illustrations, and engaging exchange of Beachcombers: A Clementine the Rescue Dog story.
In this book, Kyle Torke, the man who believes in the power of imagination and the possibility of exploration, narrates the story of three adolescents, Taliss, Conrad, and Coover, and their fantastic canine friend, Clementine. As the story progresses, the beach comes alive to the reader with its beauty and bounty. Any little enthusiast gets to meet sandpipers, starfish, purple crabs, grey snakes, seagulls, and pelicans along with cliffs, surf, flowers, and waves.
Simultaneously, conscious activities that need to be undertaken to preserve the beach and its ecosystem are categorically mentioned. For instance, the removal of plastic for recycling and picking up litter and other pollutants along the beach. Important messages through thoughtful gestures are conveyed as well. The Cranky Crab Owner is seen giving the kids ice cream cones for their helpful deeds.
However, it is only through the ‘whimsical watercolors’ of Barbara Torke that the narrative comes out of its pages to nurture and navigate its readers. Her illustrations not only add relevance to the vibrant life on the beach but also exhibits the joy that emanates from shouldering responsibilities. Further, Barbara’s presentation of the dream sequence of Coover is stark and stunning and serves well to uphold the future that humanity should strive for.
Even on Mr. Charles’ farm, the children are seen planting pine seedlings, an initiative that the author wants every kid to take. Nonetheless, tasks are always intertwined with merry-making as they are seen enjoying a picnic, camping and dreaming of a world where man and nature coexist in harmony and happiness.
Beachcombers is a must-read for everyone. It teaches the reader to appreciate his surroundings and accept responsibility for his actions to keep experiencing and enhancing all that the world has to offer.
Beachcombers, a Clementine the rescue dog story Review
As seen through the eyes of adolescent children, Beachcombers is an enchanting story of responsibility and captures the impact humans have on our environment. Clementine and the young people teach us that we have the ability to change the world for the better--one piece of plastic, and one friendship, at a time.
Javier Rivera, GearUp advisor and educator
Disclaimer:
This article and the opinions expressed in it are personal opinions. It is not meant for imposing specific views or endorsing a particular way of life. Also please do ignore any errors or omissions that you might come across. We pledge to learn from them. Happy viewing.
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