The Land of Neverendings by Kate Saunders (review)
Buy Issue for $25 at JHUP- The Land of Neverendings by Kate Saunders
Library ed. ISBN 978-0-553-49790-8 $19.99
Trade ed. ISBN 978-0-553-49789-2 $16.99
E-book ed. ISBN 978-0-553-49791-5 $10.99
Reviewed from galleys R Gr. 4-6
When Holly died three months ago, Emily lost not only her sister but also Bluey, Holly’s teddy bear, which was buried with her, and which was the inspiration for Emily’s stories of the magical world Smockeroon. One night, Emily wakes up to find two small stuffed animals who claim to be from Smockeroon. Emily is certain she’s going mad until her older neighbor, Ruth, who lost a son years ago, admits [End Page 484] she’s been getting visits from animated toys as well, toys from the stories she used to tell her boy. Smockeroon is under attack, though, from an ugly black toad spreading chaos and sadness, and it’s up to Emily and Ruth to stop it. Saunders offers a refreshing take on the classic theme of toys coming to life, with the residents of Smockeroon amusingly sassy and self involved. There is still plenty of warmth as well, and the bond formed between Emily and Ruth over their losses is especially moving as the two openly discuss their feelings. The search to find the black toad adds action and tension to the plot, while the magical elements cushion the heftier themes. Readers who’ve outgrown Winnie-the-Pooh but who still suspect that their unwatched teddy bear may be up to something will find this a pleasing blend of sentiment and humor.
