Flynn is in a wheelchair. Since the accident his
world has been his room. He reluctantly agrees to join mum on a visit to the
park which was his favourite spot, but is now a foreign place. That’s where he
sees the bird. Free in flight, light and drifting, he wishes he could be like
that bird instead of anchored to his chair.
A strange dream comes to him that night that helps
him shake off his sense of helplessness. Inspired by this dream, he finds he
can visualize being free, and become like the bird; able to soar and sweep to
freedom on wings.
This is an empowering and transforming book. Filled
with hope and possibilities, it shows to children and others swallowed by dark
thoughts and hopelessness, how to restore an optimistic view of life filled
with light through visualization.
This gorgeous book with its strong messages produced
by Empowering Resources also draws attention to the purpose and intention of
this publisher: to create children’s books with issues that children of all
ages face and fear.
Aleesah Darlison’s carefully chosen, poignant and
poetic text, adds atmosphere and deep meaning to the story.
The stunning illustrations perfectly portray what
the boy and mother are experiencing. The wistful eyes of Flynn when the bird
doesn’t visit reflect his pain. The positive and encouraging attitude of the
mother at all times shows she isn’t giving up. The deep purple shadowed sunset
and the boy’s drooping head as they turn for home is a picture of his
disappointment. And the pages full of light as Flynn imagines himself free and
flying is the breaking open of sorrow being replaced by joy.
Although the only characters mentioned in the text
are Flynn, the mother and the bird, I was captive to the presence of the dog on
every double spread and single page. He silently reflects the boy’s emotions,
and is there as a constant companion and comfort to Flynn, always sharing what
he is feeling, and simply being there.
Title:
Free
Author:
Aleesah Darlison
Illustrator:
Belinda Elliott
Publisher:
Empowering Resources
Publication
Date: December 2017, $17.00
Format:
Paperback
ISBN:
9781925592085
For
ages: 4+
Type:
Picture Book
