Stephen Brooks Reviews

Added February 14, 2007

Creatures of the Night

Author: Stephen Brooks
Illustrator: Rodger Wilson
Publisher: Purple Sky Publishing
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: August 2005
Genre: Children: Storybook/Nature
Format: Hardback
Price: $19.95
ISBN-10: 0-9769017-1-4
ISBN-13: 9780976901716
Author Email/Website: www.stephenjbrooks.com
Reviewer: Sharyn McGinty
Rating: 8 Gargoyles

Long shadows form upon the ground,

Cast by the setting sun.

Another night is almost here.

Another day is done.

With its gentle watercolours illustrations and poetic verses, Creatures of the Night is more than a mere storybook; it is a journey into a world seldom seen or experienced by children. Raccoons, owls, frogs, crickets and more come out to play as the rest of the world sleeps. Brooks writes with tenderness and fascination, fostering a sense of wonder.

A lovely story from beginning to end, it delights both young and old. My children enjoy reading it as a precursor to our daily nature walks and try to find evidence of these nocturnal creatures. Entertaining and teaching, Creatures of the Night is a fascinating walk through the forest.

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Added June 23, 2006

Alexander Asenby's Great Adventure

Author: Stephen J. Brooks
Illustrator: Rajesh
Publisher: Purple Sky Publishing
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: January 2006
Genre: Children: Fantasy/Storybook
Format: Hardback
Price: $16.95
ISBN: 0-9769017-2-2
Author Email/Website: www.stephenjbrooks.com
Reviewer: Sharyn McGinty
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

In this lavishly illustrated tale, Stephen Brooks introduces readers to Alexander Asenby, a little boy who has fantastic journeys at night while his parents sleep.

Opening the magical closet door, transports Alexander to a magical realm filled with adventures, magic and heroism. Here he is a brave night atop a dragon steed, savior of the fairy realm.

After many readings and much bargaining, I finally convinced my children to let me borrow this book long enough to write my review. Alexander Asenby's Great Adventure is simply enchanting. Rich, soft illustrations transport readers to another world, while the story itself captures the joy of childish make-believe. As a parent, I appreciate the fact Alexander Asenby's Great Adventure encourages children to indulge in make-believe and use their imagination. And the fact Alexander rides a dragon instead of slaying them delighted this dragon-lover to no end.

Alexander Asenby's Great Adventure is a remarkable journey for the young and young at heart!

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