Hobby : Book Review

"Hobby" by Jane Yolen is a captivating tale that explores the special relationship between a young girl named Rebecca and her grandfather. The story revolves around her grandfather's hobby of building and flying model airplanes, which serves as a metaphor for their deep bond and the concept of ambition. Yolen skillfully combines themes of family, love, loss, and resilience in this heartwarming narrative.

The characters in "Hobby" are well-developed, with Rebecca and her grandfather sharing a unique connection that is beautifully depicted throughout the book. Yolen delves into their emotions, allowing readers to easily relate to their experiences. The love and admiration between Rebecca and her grandfather are evident, creating a strong emotional core that drives the story.

Yolen's writing style is moving and poetic, immersing readers in the world of Rebecca and her grandfather. The descriptions of the model airplanes and their flights are vivid, making it easy to imagine the scenes. The author's attention to detail adds depth to the story and enhances the overall reading experience.

One of the primary themes explored in "Hobby" is the idea of ambition and the pursuit of dreams. Through the grandfather's passion for model airplanes, Yolen highlights the importance of having something to strive for. The book also touches on resilience in the face of adversity and the power of perseverance.

Overall, "Hobby" is a touching and thought-provoking book that will resonate with readers of all ages. Jane Yolen's skillful storytelling and well-crafted characters make for an engaging read. From the exploration of family dynamics to the celebration of ambition, this book offers a meaningful and heartfelt journey that will leave a lasting impression. It is a story that reminds us of the power of love and the beauty of pursuing our passions.

What are readers saying?

The book "Hobby" by author Jane Yolen has garnered a variety of reviews from readers. The overall consensus seems to be mixed, with some praising the book for its intriguing concept and well-drawn characters, while others felt that it lacked depth and failed to fully engage them.

A number of reviewers lauded the unique concept of the story, which centers around a "hobby-horse" that can transform into a real, living creature. They found the magical elements to be inventive and captivating, adding an interesting twist to the traditional horse-centric narrative. Additionally, many commended the author for her ability to bring the characters to life, giving them believable and relatable personalities.

However, there were those who found the story to be lacking in complexity and depth. They felt that the plot was predictable and devoid of any surprising or thought-provoking elements. Some reviewers also found fault with the writing style, noting that it felt disjointed and failed to create a cohesive flow. This, in turn, detracted from their overall enjoyment of the book.

Opinions were also divided when it came to the characterization. While some readers felt a strong emotional connection to the characters and their journeys, others found them underdeveloped and lacking substance. Some reviewers struggled to empathize with the characters' motivations and actions, which hindered their ability to fully engage with the story. A few even mentioned feeling disconnected from the narrative, finding it difficult to fully immerse themselves in the events unfolding.

Despite the mixed reviews, many readers agreed that Jane Yolen's writing style was engaging and well-crafted. They appreciated the author's attention to detail and her ability to create vivid imagery, which enhanced the reading experience. However, there were also some who found the writing to be overly simplistic and lacking in depth, failing to fully captivate their interest.

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