Review of Dimple’s Adventure

[Rebecca De Figueiredo]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Dimple's Adventure" by Joseph A Costello.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Title: Dimples’ Adventure
Author: Joseph A Costello
Illustrations: Tanyia M Dunagan

All small children love to hear about Santa Claus, and this delightful little story takes him, Dimple the golf ball, and us, the reader, all the way to warm and sunny Hawaii. It may be a short story but it is packed full of atmosphere and warmth, giving children the chance to imagine him in this faraway country, having a well-earned rest organised by his helpers, the elves.

The illustrations are detailed and interesting, using recognisable and thought-provoking subjects, such as Santa Claus watching the sunset over the sea. I usually prefer stronger colours, but these pictures were obviously straight from artist Tanyia M Dunagan's heart and definitely not the characterless, cartoonish illustrations created by computer software.

The story is short and easy to read, with illustrations that fill whole pages and thus keep the book compelling. Even if the very young have to have it read to them, those learning to read will benefit from the straightforward language and pick up new words, such as some Hawaiian vocabulary and golf terminology. The glimpse into Hawaiian traditions is very nice.

The warmth, the sea and sand, and the golf are the opposite of the more traditional image of cold, snowy weather, adding a new aspect. Dimple is an amusing character and will appeal to small children. The fact that the elves organised a relaxing respite from the hard work of Christmas and the long trip on Christmas Eve is an act of kindness that children will take on board and think about.

This book would make a lovely stocking filler or addition to a preschool library to be read in December. The colourful pictures and atmospheric story make it a valuable book for any small child. This story creates a different way of looking at Christmas and creates a feeling of appreciation for Father Christmas and all the hard work that he does, which is a good message for children.

I disliked nothing and have no problem awarding it five out of five stars. I was impressed by the flawless editing.

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Dimple's Adventure
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