Naomi-Dunsen White’s, “Johari the Great: A boy, his imagination and a freshly sharpened pencil” is a book that is bound to spark the imagination of all who read it. This early chapter book written for ages 7-12 is about a young boy named Johari. He’s excited about a special assembly in school where the participants in a story writing contest get to read their stories aloud in front of the school. He’s quite certain that his story is so phenomenal that it’s bound to win.
When he finally gets his turn, he tells the story of Johari the Great, a superhero detective. Johari’s quest to solve a huge mystery that’s captured his school and town has the whole assembly on the edge of their seats, as it will have the reader on edge as well. After, the mind bending plot twist and the uproar of the assembly, everyone (including the reader) learns that Johari really is a superhero, his imagination being his biggest superpower.
This book is so well written and engaging, that even as an adult, I found it to be a page turner. I especially loved the strong and loving bond of Johari’s family. His father’s affirmation to him everyday before he went off to school, to “make up your mind to learn something new and do something great”, is a motivational mantra that every child can embrace. And the support and cheers Johari received from his friends and classmates are such positive examples of friendship and comradery.
Most importantly, inspired by his teacher, Johari was able to discover the gift of storytelling, proving that really great teachers are superheroes in their own right.
This book is an excellent addition to any library. And with diverse characters, it’s a win!
Purchase a copy on Amazon: here.
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