Crusoe and the Stone Gardener
Reviews
A touching adventure with rich mythology and immersive descriptions.
…beautiful and well-written…the action sequences (especially the climax) are written with exciting, kinetic language that will hold interest. The mythology of the elves and the Commons is compellingly detailed and engaging. Readers will find Crusoe an easy protagonist to root for as he learns about himself and finds his way to a loving family.
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KirkusReview
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... completely magical ... a weightiness to the plot that’s found in the best children’s literature.
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I really just love the book, it’s completely magical. It reminds me a great deal of Enid Blyton as regards the tone and adventurous elements. The animal narrator, the realism and detail of the setting and magical elements, all merge in a way that’s particularly effective, with each supporting the others.
The narrative voice of Crusoe the dog is consistent and believable. I especially like that the book doesn’t talk down to the reader, a common problem with so-called junior fiction offerings. There is a weightiness to the plot that’s found in all the best children’s literature – good and evil are at stake.
Meaghan Jamieson
- Librarian and mother of four,
Nova Scotia
It’s a story of loss, love, resilience and wonder – exactly the kind of hope-filled story we need right now.
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I just finished Crusoe and the Stone Gardener and had to tell you about it – this one really stayed with me. It’s the kind of book you sit with, like a slow, meaningful conversation you don’t want to end.
First-time author Tim Brushett takes the reader on a brilliant, charming and slightly haunting journey through 1960s Nova Scotia. There’s a dog with a wounded heart, Elena the elf girl, a mysterious man restoring a forgotten park, and just the right mix of magic and ancient evil. It’s a story of loss, love, resilience and wonder – exactly the kind of hope-filled story we need right now.
Paige Ennis
Bipartisan Policy Centre,
Washington, D.C.
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I encourage all to give this book a read. You won’t be disappointed.
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Crusoe and the Stone Gardener by Timothy Brushett is a captivating read. Set in the province of Nova Scotia, the story chronicles the adventures of a puppy named Crusoe, born the runt of his litter on a rural farm. Crusoe eventually leaves the safety of the farm and his journey begins. He encounters many friends along the way, some human, some non human and some very magical! He also experiences challenges, and discovers the word is not always a kind and forgiving place. This is a story about friendship, loss, perseverance, courage and most of all, hope.
Mr. Brushett tells Crusoe’s story with beautiful descriptive language that allows the reader to see what Crusoe sees, and more importantly, to feel what Crusoe feels.The reader will cheer Crusoe’s triumphs and feel the heartbreak of his pain.
Some Nova Scotian history is also woven into the story, recounting the work of Leighton Dillman, and his efforts to restore some of the beauty to the neglected Dartmouth Commons.
I enjoyed this book very much, and highly recommend it for readers middle school age and beyond. I think it would make a great story to share with a loved one, or as a read aloud in a classroom setting. The language, the themes, and the historical aspects would lend to a myriad of novel study ideas.
Heather Chipman
Retired Teacher
Kentville, Nova Scotia
This book may encourage honest discussions between young people and their parents about loss, bravery and love.