Moominvalley in November

Rating:
Summary: Can't wait!
Review: As the book is not published yet, I can't give a fair rating but having read all the other books I'm sure it's great! I understand that the English translation of this book was published in the 60's or 70's and then it went out of print. Having read all her other books, I am trembling with anticipation! There are used copies available of the first publishing but they are expensive, ... I'll just have to wait. Thank you whoever decided to publish it again!

Rating:
Summary: Misfits and yearning
Review: I'm writing this review in early 2004, and this wonderful book is back in print in America; congradulations to the publisher. I always wondered why others in the fine "Moomin" series (originally from Finland, and translated in England) were available while this one was not; but now it is, and I couldn't be more glad. Fans of Tove Jansson's writing will know that she has a fondness for quirky creatures, seasonal moods, and an almost effortless ability to strike profound chords in the reader's inner world through faint suggestions and an economy of words. All this from a writer who is known as a children's author, but these novels could appeal to anyone in grade four on up to adults, so long as the reader is of a quiet, thoughtful turn of mind. In this particular story, the Moomin family (rounded, fuzzy little "trolls") is absent from Moominvalley (see the book "Moominpappa at Sea" to find out where they went). In their absence, an unlikely group of misfits comes looking for them and ends up sharing a month at their house together. All are seeking for something or other, though they do not yet know that the something is within themselves. Moomintroll's practical, taciturn friend Snufkin (well-known from other books) is onhand to help them sort themselves out, and in the end all are transformed by the shared experience. If this sounds like the plot of an inner world rather than an outer one, it is; yet it is amazingly well done through a very down-to-earth, everyday narration, filled with subtle comic touches and good cheer. Jansson's inimitable, cartoony illustrations of her own books add much to the tale while still leaving some to our imaginations. As you may gather, I have a hard time describing this unique book properly; all I can do is to heartily recommend it to any child (or adult) who is a little offbeat and likes some peace and quiet to be alone with their thoughts.

Rating:
Summary: This Book Digs Deeper Than It Would Appear
Review: This is a somewhat ethereal read; I would place the reading level at upper elementary, but I agree with the reviewer who said it is defintiely not a children-only read. It is indeed a very quiet, contemplative reading experience, and not every child will appreciate that; but the type of child who likes stories that make him/her think, will enjoy this book.