Review of Idris and the Magic Lamp

[Ivana Tomaš]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Idris and the Magic Lamp" by Takia Logan.]

---

3 out of 4 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Many children do not like to read; that is, they do not like to read aloud in front of their peers at school. The most common reason for this is the fear of making a mistake. Children are often cruel and like to tease and make fun of someone who makes a mistake. Idris and the Magic Lamp by Takia Logan is a children's book that touches on this very topic.

Idris is a very intelligent boy and special in many ways. He always asks a lot of questions at school, is energetic, and enjoys exploring different things. He also likes to listen and tell stories but by no means likes to read them aloud. When a new librarian came to his school, he organized a competition where children had to present and narrate a story. For Idris, it was the worst nightmare. However, when he tried to fall asleep that evening, he noticed a strangely dressed man sitting at the bottom of his bed. He told him that he could make three wishes but that he only had 24 hours to do so. The reader further learns what Idris wished for and whether he was encouraged to read freely and aloud in front of his classmates.

This is a very gripping children's story. First of all, the author addresses an important but somewhat underestimated problem that occurs in schools. Children often encounter big words in various texts; they do not know what they mean or how they are read. In such situations, they fear being ridiculed by their colleagues. I like how this book warns of the consequences of these problems on children and their psyche and behavior. Children in their schools must have adequate support from their teachers. It is crucial that they are not afraid to ask their teachers if they do not know something. They mustn't be afraid of being ridiculed by their colleagues for any reason. Also, I like the magical element in the book, which is the genie from the lamp offering Idris three wishes. Children almost always prefer stories that have supernatural and magical elements. Also, some words are bolded in the text, making them more noticeable to children. I believe this will help them expand their vocabulary.

As for the negative aspects of this book, there are not many. However, I came across some minor errors, and I think they could have been easily avoided. Also, certain words in the text are in parentheses for no apparent reason, like conjunctions. Furthermore, the writing style itself seemed kind of monotonous. Even though it’s a children’s book, the creativity is lacking in forming sentences.

All in all, I give this book 3 out of 4 stars. The main reason for this relates to the minor flaws I have already mentioned. I wish there was a little more originality in the author’s writing. I would recommend this book to all parents whose children are ashamed to read aloud at school in front of their colleagues. I would also recommend that lower-grade teachers read it to their students.

******
Idris and the Magic Lamp
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Joe Alex 2]

I like the idea of a magical genie helping Idris with his fears, as it could make the topic more engaging for children. I’m curious about how Idris’s wishes impact his confidence and whether the book offers a lasting message for kids. I’d definitely consider reading it, especially for younger children who are hesitant to read out loud.