Book Review: Tuck Everlasting
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What Parents Should Know
The sparkling nature descriptions are great introductions to
lyrical prose. The main character uses her ingenuity to rescue
a friend from a risky situation. Kids who stick with the novel
through the (intentionally) sleepy opening are rewarded with a
humorous and moving story, as well as unforgettable
descriptions of the natural world.
Common Sense Media Review
This is such a timeless story that kids who miss the context
clues--horses used for transportation, a gallows in the town
square--might be surprised to discover at the end of the book
that it's set in the 1880s. This eternal quality of the novel's
setting and, literally, of its characters has helped the novel
endure for twenty-five years.
In many ways, the story is a fairy tale, with a magical
spring, a kidnapped heroine, an enchanted handsome prince, and
even a bittersweet ending. Babbitt's eloquent descriptions of
woods, ponds, and animals, though, elevate the novel from mere
story to a lyrical meditation on the natural order. The dog
days of summer, when the earth cracks and lighting flashes
without thunder, are described with exquisite clarity. Cows,
fish, and even one of the most memorable toads in children's
literature are given personality and respect.
This is a wonderful book to read with children who have
experienced the death of an older relative. Winnie's
conversation with Angus Tuck about life, death, and the circle
of life is a natural jumping-off point for family discussions.
Children will also be eager to discuss Winnie's life-or-death
decision. One ten-year-old said the book made her cry, but also
made her think about her grandfather's death in a different
way.
From the Book
If it's really elves, she thought, "I can have a look at
them." And, though her instinct was to turn and run, she was
pleased to discover that her curiosity was stronger. She began
to creep forward. She would go just close enough, she told
herself. Just close enough to see. And then she would turn and
run.
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