Title: Victor and the Tactibbarlemac
Author: Jan Atkinson
Publisher: Reading Glass Books
ISBN: 978-1962-497299
Pages: 48
Genre: Illustrated Children’s Book
Reviewed by: Ella Vincent
Hollywood Book Reviews
Victor and the Tactibbarlemac is an engaging and sweet story about creatures and people coexisting which will teach children about differences, kindness, and conflict resolution. Author Jan Atkinson has written a book that readers of all ages will love.
Victor tells the story of Kemerick, a land where different people and animals peacefully co-existed until they started fighting and arguing with each other. A sorcerer came to Kemerick and warned the animals to stop fighting or else he would punish them. Camels, rabbits, and cats continued their infighting, and the sorcerers turned them into Tactibbarlemacs; different creatures that lived underground for many years. Then a curious Tactibbarlemac named Tacti goes above ground and hides in the pocket of a man that was digging around their home. Tacti goes home with the man and has an encounter with the man’s baby son Victor who changes both of their lives.
Victor and the Tactibbarlemac is a simple and effective story which has many lessons for children and their caregivers. The animals in the story demonstrate the extent that jealousy can drive animals apart because they have different abilities. They represent well the divisions children see in each other and can bully each other for sometimes. The sorcerer represents the adult in the situation that has to discipline children when they have conflict. Tacti is a brave character that defies the boundaries between people and creatures and shows that it’s important to reach out to people. Victor plays a small role in the book but is a pivotal character that shows the power of friendship. Atkinson’s writing conveys the message of friendship in an entertaining way. In addition to the powerful story, the illustrations also present the fictional Tactibbarlemac as a realistic-looking creature that’s a mixture of the battling camels, rabbits, and cats. The illustrations of the animals and even the humans look warm and welcome readers to Kemerick.
Victor would be ideal for preschool or kindergarten students that can learn about friendship and respecting other people’s differences. The book would also be best for parents, caregivers, and teachers to read to children to teach them the importance of sharing and being good friends. The book could be a great addition to school or parents’ home libraries.
Atkinson has written a book that will remind readers of all ages that friendship can transcend any perceived differences. Victor and the Tactibbarlemac is a book that will educate and entertain readers. Join Victor and the wise Tactibbarlemac as they learn valuable lessons about kindness, listening, and how different can be wonderful.