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Il nonno che aggiustava i sogni
Michael si trasferisce con i genitori in Israele, la terra d’origine del padre, per poter assistere il nonno anziano. Adattarsi alla nuova casa, alla lingua e ai nuovi compagni di scuola è difficile per il ragazzino, così come è struggente il ricordo dell’America, il solo mondo che lui abbia conosciuto. Una volta giunto a Gerusalemme, però, Michael capisce che quel vecchio burbero, responsabile del loro trasferimento, è in realtà un meraviglioso complice: nella cantina della sua grande casa nasconde un tesoro fatto di preziosi oggetti antichi e di attrezzi incredibili. Non solo: tutti i mercoledì si camuffa ed esce per le vie del quartiere con un affilatoio su ruote, gridando: “Arrotino, arrotino! Forbici e coltelli! Coltelli e forbici”, facendo accorrere donne, bambine e bambini curiosi. Il nonno è davvero in grado di riparare qualsiasi cosa!
Ma allora sarebbe capace di aggiustare anche i sogni? Michael lo scoprirà quando il nonno lo farà entrare in un suo sogno, offrendogli il più prezioso dei doni: come un apprendista stregone, Michael imparerà a distinguere i confini tra il sogno e la realtà, vivendo insieme al bizzarro vecchietto avventure a volte fantastiche, a volte spaventose: perché ci sono sempre due lati delle cose, uno brutto e uno bello.
Ma allora sarebbe capace di aggiustare anche i sogni? Michael lo scoprirà quando il nonno lo farà entrare in un suo sogno, offrendogli il più prezioso dei doni: come un apprendista stregone, Michael imparerà a distinguere i confini tra il sogno e la realtà, vivendo insieme al bizzarro vecchietto avventure a volte fantastiche, a volte spaventose: perché ci sono sempre due lati delle cose, uno brutto e uno bello.
125 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1997
4 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Uri Orlev
44 books37 followersUri Orlev (Hebrew: אורי אורלב; born Jerzy Henryk Orlowski in 1931) is an award-winning Israeli children's author and translator of Polish-Jewish origin. Born in Warsaw, Poland, he survived the war years in the Warsaw Ghetto and the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp (where he was sent after his mother was shot by the Nazis). After the war he moved to Israel. He began writing children's literature in 1976 and has since published over 30 books, which are often biographical. His books have been translated from Hebrew into 25 languages, while he himself has also translated Polish literature into Hebrew. One of his most famous books, which was also adapted as a play and as a film, is the semi-autobiographical The Island on Bird Street.
In 1996 Orlev received the Hans Christian Andersen Award for children's literature.
In 1996 Orlev received the Hans Christian Andersen Award for children's literature.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 30, 2020
A quiet boy who is more at home with adults - Mr. O'Grady the junk-dealer, Mr. Albert the bookbinder, Mr. Rapp the gem merchant - than with children his own age, eleven-year-old Michael Hammerman finds a true kindred spirit in his grandfather Raphael, after he and his parents move from Port Washington, New York to Jerusalem, in order to be closer to him. As adult concerns percolate in the background - is his grandfather's housekeeper, Mrs. Saupier, really a "kept woman," and what does that mean? have Michael (now Mikha'el) and his family moved to Israel simply to secure their inheritance? - Mikha'el gradually builds a loving bond with this grandfather he has never before met, and is eventually given an extraordinary gift: the ability to share his grandfather's dreams. When it becomes apparent that Raphael Hammerman is growing steadily weaker, and ever closer to death, will Mikha'el be able to step into his place, as a "dream master...?"
Although I have long been familiar with the name Uri Orlev, The Song of the Whales is the first selection from this celebrated Israeli children's author, recipient of IBBY's (the International Board on Books for Young People) Hans Christian Andersen Award in 1996, that I have read. Chosen as our August selection, over in the International Children's Book Club to which I belong, it is a slim novella that addresses itself to serious concerns - relations between the generations, the nature of love and jealousy, the world of dreams (both happy and sad, cheerful and threatening) - that are of as much relevance to young people, as they are to adults. I liked the fact that Orlev addresses some of these concerns in a middle grade novel, as children too experience the dark and surreal (despite parental wishes and efforts to the contrary, many times), although I did find myself wishing, from time to time, that certain aspects of the story had been better developed.
I wanted more - more dreams, more explanations - but perhaps that's a good sign... Perhaps this short, dreamlike piece isn't meant to satisfy, so much as provoke. Perhaps this means I should read more Orlev. Perhaps...
Although I have long been familiar with the name Uri Orlev, The Song of the Whales is the first selection from this celebrated Israeli children's author, recipient of IBBY's (the International Board on Books for Young People) Hans Christian Andersen Award in 1996, that I have read. Chosen as our August selection, over in the International Children's Book Club to which I belong, it is a slim novella that addresses itself to serious concerns - relations between the generations, the nature of love and jealousy, the world of dreams (both happy and sad, cheerful and threatening) - that are of as much relevance to young people, as they are to adults. I liked the fact that Orlev addresses some of these concerns in a middle grade novel, as children too experience the dark and surreal (despite parental wishes and efforts to the contrary, many times), although I did find myself wishing, from time to time, that certain aspects of the story had been better developed.
I wanted more - more dreams, more explanations - but perhaps that's a good sign... Perhaps this short, dreamlike piece isn't meant to satisfy, so much as provoke. Perhaps this means I should read more Orlev. Perhaps...
July 7, 2010
i can't decide how i feel about this book. i read it over a doctor's visit and it was one of those books that i probably couldn't have put down, no matter where i was reading it. however, it was also one of those books that i felt i read too fast. maybe i missed something b/c of the pace at which i read it. ??? it had some very interesting, very profound thoughts,... quotes, but then in other places i felt like things didn't quite connect. i'm wondering if it had more to do with the translation. hhhhmmm....
December 26, 2014
The "Song of the Whales" explores the relationship between a grandfather and grandson in Israel. This is a short novel, episodic in pacing. Much of the narrative qualifies as a novel-in-dreams.
Mikha'el has never quite fit in with his American classmates, instead spending his free time with various adult friends. When he moves to Israel, that trend continues as he forms an instant bond with his grandfather and continues to correspond with his American friends. The pacing is a bit jarring--after forty pages of setup, the author finally gets to the crux of the story and begins to introduce the dream element. Then, events transpire at breakneck speed, with one dream sequence after another to set up the ending. Inexplicably, the narrative switches to Madame Saupier's point of view for a brief scene. These pacing elements make the narrative feel a bit chaotic at points.
The story establishes a strong, viable connection between Mikha'el and his grandfather. Perhaps most compelling is his grandfather's dark side, which manifests itself as an alternate persona in their shared dreams. It is this alternate persona that resolves the Madame Saupier storyline.
Aptly, the narrative is dreamlike, sometimes blurring the edges of dreams and the "really real" world. Because the story takes place in Israel, some more establishment of setting would have helped to immerse the reader more fully in Mikha'el's new world.
Some of the ancillary relationships in this novel could have used more development, particularly that between Mikha'el's grandfather and Madame Saupier. Why does he keep her around for so many years when he no longer loves her and she believes that his beloved grandson is little more than a germ carrier? What drew them together in the first place? For her to stay in his household for so many years, there must have been something substantial between them once. Her character might have taken on more dimension with some development of her back-story. In the absence of such development, she feels somewhat superfluous in this story.
Overall, "The Song of the Whales" is a poignant read. There are some errors in execution, but the prevailing message is an important one for young readers: It is okay to be unique. Pursue it. Embrace it.
(Disclaimer: I received the galley proofs of this book from Houghton Mifflin Books for Children for review.)
Mikha'el has never quite fit in with his American classmates, instead spending his free time with various adult friends. When he moves to Israel, that trend continues as he forms an instant bond with his grandfather and continues to correspond with his American friends. The pacing is a bit jarring--after forty pages of setup, the author finally gets to the crux of the story and begins to introduce the dream element. Then, events transpire at breakneck speed, with one dream sequence after another to set up the ending. Inexplicably, the narrative switches to Madame Saupier's point of view for a brief scene. These pacing elements make the narrative feel a bit chaotic at points.
The story establishes a strong, viable connection between Mikha'el and his grandfather. Perhaps most compelling is his grandfather's dark side, which manifests itself as an alternate persona in their shared dreams. It is this alternate persona that resolves the Madame Saupier storyline.
Aptly, the narrative is dreamlike, sometimes blurring the edges of dreams and the "really real" world. Because the story takes place in Israel, some more establishment of setting would have helped to immerse the reader more fully in Mikha'el's new world.
Some of the ancillary relationships in this novel could have used more development, particularly that between Mikha'el's grandfather and Madame Saupier. Why does he keep her around for so many years when he no longer loves her and she believes that his beloved grandson is little more than a germ carrier? What drew them together in the first place? For her to stay in his household for so many years, there must have been something substantial between them once. Her character might have taken on more dimension with some development of her back-story. In the absence of such development, she feels somewhat superfluous in this story.
Overall, "The Song of the Whales" is a poignant read. There are some errors in execution, but the prevailing message is an important one for young readers: It is okay to be unique. Pursue it. Embrace it.
(Disclaimer: I received the galley proofs of this book from Houghton Mifflin Books for Children for review.)
June 21, 2010
3.5 stars actually
Original review posted at Layers of Thought
A sweet and mostly realistic tale, with touches of the magical. The story addresses connections to loved ones after death.
Mini Synopsis: This is a translated work which is a sweet and fantastic tale about a young boy whose family moves to Israel from New York to care for his aging and dying grandfather. Michael, his American name, is a loner of a child and prefers adult company to that of children. He is comfortable with this move since he does speak fluent Hebrew.
Upon arrival to Israel, he meets his grandfather and they become very close. Over their time together his grandfather shares his knowledge of his special gift, that Michael also possess. Only Michael doesn’t realize how special he really is.
My Thoughts: I enjoyed this tale with its many interesting themes, such as addressing dreams, death, respect for the old, thinking about rebirth, reincarnation, sharing past lives, vegetarianism, morality and recognizing special gifts.
Several problems I had with the book is that it did not feel completely translated in a few small areas; there were bits which could be confusing for an American reader. I imagine that this was remedied since the copy that I read was an ARC – advanced read copy. Another is that one of the characters, Michael’s grandfather’s housekeeper/girlfriend, was portrayed as a difficult person. My problem was that although she cared for his grandfather, his grandfather’s home, did all the cooking, and after a move did these things for Michael's family as well, she was treated with disrespect by the entire family. Not a great role model for a child.
All in all, I adore translations and when looking beyond the annoyances mentioned above, I give this book 3.5 stars. I liked it a lot.
June 5, 2018
Read for Goodreads 2018 Summer Reading Challenge, Expert Level.
You Have a Lovely Accent: Read a book that was translated from another language
This book was lyrical and dreamlike and beautifully written, despite being translated from Hebrew. I can see why the author has won awards! But, well, I just didn't like it! I feel bad, because I did want to like it. But, quite frankly, the book was disjointed (read: dreamlike) and full of all flourish and no substance (read: lyrical).
I'm putting this into the "Magical Realism" category which, as everyone who's read my reviews knows, is not a favorite of mine. I'm fine with magic, but I need a reason for it, and there is none given here.
I did very much like the relationship between the main character and his grandfather, but the treatment of the grandfather's...female was frustrating, to say the least. And the parents cared more about money than about the person who had it. That bothers me.
The simple fact is, there's a lot in this book to discuss. It would be a great book for a book club. For adults. And that's the problem. This book is marketed for kids, and I read it as such. But this book is only going to be strange and confusing to elementary-aged kids. Market this to adults and I'll be more willing to up the rating.
Content advisory: very mild cursing, death, discussions of war and war-related violence
You Have a Lovely Accent: Read a book that was translated from another language
This book was lyrical and dreamlike and beautifully written, despite being translated from Hebrew. I can see why the author has won awards! But, well, I just didn't like it! I feel bad, because I did want to like it. But, quite frankly, the book was disjointed (read: dreamlike) and full of all flourish and no substance (read: lyrical).
I'm putting this into the "Magical Realism" category which, as everyone who's read my reviews knows, is not a favorite of mine. I'm fine with magic, but I need a reason for it, and there is none given here.
I did very much like the relationship between the main character and his grandfather, but the treatment of the grandfather's...female was frustrating, to say the least. And the parents cared more about money than about the person who had it. That bothers me.
The simple fact is, there's a lot in this book to discuss. It would be a great book for a book club. For adults. And that's the problem. This book is marketed for kids, and I read it as such. But this book is only going to be strange and confusing to elementary-aged kids. Market this to adults and I'll be more willing to up the rating.
Content advisory: very mild cursing, death, discussions of war and war-related violence
August 3, 2017
Okay I'm teaching this book to my students (who are ESL students around 8 years old; not sure why it's on the curriculum but anyway)
Ignoring the fact that the writing is so disjointed and near impossible to get my kids with engage with I have one major issue with this story (which i DO think does a decent job at exploring themes such as dreams, death and vegetarianism) is:
THE WAY IT PORTRAYS MADAME SAUPIER! She is portrayed as clingy, a money-grabber etc etc and from all I can see she does nothing but go out of the way to care for Mikhael's grandfather, no matter how she is treated. She is not respected by any of the characters (and the authors voice) one bit. Grandpa is described as having a dark side which is not explored or commented on, it does not deplete his image as a wise hero that want's to fix the world. Grandpa is a bloody 'brocialist'- he is progressive in that he's vegetarian and helps out those less fortunate but still gets away with treating women like shit. It realllllllly adds to a problematic view of women and I really don't want my kids having this skewed and biased view. I never use this website but I really felt the urge to write this review bc it pissed me off.
Ignoring the fact that the writing is so disjointed and near impossible to get my kids with engage with I have one major issue with this story (which i DO think does a decent job at exploring themes such as dreams, death and vegetarianism) is:
THE WAY IT PORTRAYS MADAME SAUPIER! She is portrayed as clingy, a money-grabber etc etc and from all I can see she does nothing but go out of the way to care for Mikhael's grandfather, no matter how she is treated. She is not respected by any of the characters (and the authors voice) one bit. Grandpa is described as having a dark side which is not explored or commented on, it does not deplete his image as a wise hero that want's to fix the world. Grandpa is a bloody 'brocialist'- he is progressive in that he's vegetarian and helps out those less fortunate but still gets away with treating women like shit. It realllllllly adds to a problematic view of women and I really don't want my kids having this skewed and biased view. I never use this website but I really felt the urge to write this review bc it pissed me off.
August 22, 2022
Ciao Lettrici e Lettori,
Una lettura che mi ha scaldato il cuore e alla quale ho dato 4.5🌟
Lo consiglio a una fascia d’età giovane dai 10 anni in su sicuramente lo apprezzeranno molto
È libro molto veloce, scorrevole ma che lascia dentro ognuno di noi un piccolo insegnamento.
L’esperienza di lettura è meravigliosa, la scrittura è scorrevole, ricca di dialoghi tra i nostri protagonisti il nonno e il nipote; che viaggiano nei sogni e ci consentono di sperare in un futuro migliore ricco di bene e di felicità.
All’interno troviamo anche alcuni disegni dei sogni che fanno e il tutto lo rende ancora più ricco di fantasia e adatto ai più piccoli.
La forza di questo libro è sicuramente la determinazione, ricordi ai quali rimanere legati e da condividere.
Un legame tra nonno e nipote che arricchisce entrambi e che si sviluppa pian piano, attraverso la conoscenza reciproca e la condivisione di esperienze di vita.
Leggetelo e lasciatevi trasportare
Una lettura che mi ha scaldato il cuore e alla quale ho dato 4.5🌟
Lo consiglio a una fascia d’età giovane dai 10 anni in su sicuramente lo apprezzeranno molto
È libro molto veloce, scorrevole ma che lascia dentro ognuno di noi un piccolo insegnamento.
L’esperienza di lettura è meravigliosa, la scrittura è scorrevole, ricca di dialoghi tra i nostri protagonisti il nonno e il nipote; che viaggiano nei sogni e ci consentono di sperare in un futuro migliore ricco di bene e di felicità.
All’interno troviamo anche alcuni disegni dei sogni che fanno e il tutto lo rende ancora più ricco di fantasia e adatto ai più piccoli.
La forza di questo libro è sicuramente la determinazione, ricordi ai quali rimanere legati e da condividere.
Un legame tra nonno e nipote che arricchisce entrambi e che si sviluppa pian piano, attraverso la conoscenza reciproca e la condivisione di esperienze di vita.
Leggetelo e lasciatevi trasportare
January 16, 2020
Il piccolo Michael si trasferisce con i suoi genitori in Israele per assistere il nonno anziano.
Michael fatica ad ambientarsi e gli mancano i suoi particolari amici. Conosciuto il nonno però scopre che è molto simile si suoi vecchi amici e si trova molto bene. La casa del nonno ci sono un sacco di tesori: oggetti antichi e attrezzi strani. Il mercoledì sera nonno e nipote escono per le vie del paese con un carretto per riparare quello di cui la gente ha bisogno... anche i sogni. Il nonno insegnerà a Michael ad entrare nei sogni e ad imparare a distinguere tra sogno e realtà.
È un libro carino che con leggerezza affronta temi importanti come forza d’animo, determinazione, coraggio e l’importanza dei ricordi. Molto bello il legame che si crea tra nonno e nipote ❣️ un legame che arricchisce entrambi e che dona gioia e amore.
Una lettura carina e veloce
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Michael fatica ad ambientarsi e gli mancano i suoi particolari amici. Conosciuto il nonno però scopre che è molto simile si suoi vecchi amici e si trova molto bene. La casa del nonno ci sono un sacco di tesori: oggetti antichi e attrezzi strani. Il mercoledì sera nonno e nipote escono per le vie del paese con un carretto per riparare quello di cui la gente ha bisogno... anche i sogni. Il nonno insegnerà a Michael ad entrare nei sogni e ad imparare a distinguere tra sogno e realtà.
È un libro carino che con leggerezza affronta temi importanti come forza d’animo, determinazione, coraggio e l’importanza dei ricordi. Molto bello il legame che si crea tra nonno e nipote ❣️ un legame che arricchisce entrambi e che dona gioia e amore.
Una lettura carina e veloce
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
October 5, 2024
Il libro racconta la storia di Michael, un ragazzino che con la sua famiglia si trasferisce ad Israele per assistere il nonno anziano negli ultimi suoi anni di vita. Il nonno ha un'abilità molto particolare: riuscire a portare le persone nei suoi sogni e ad aggiustarli, trasformando gli incubi in sogni sereni.
Il libro racconta del legame speciale che si crea tra Michael e il nonno. Il personaggio del nonno è straordinario: è un uomo saggio, con una grande capacità di ascolto e comprensione e il rapporto tra Michael e il nonno è descritto con una tenerezza e profondità.
Il nonno che aggiustava i sogni è un libro che consiglio vivamente. È una storia che insegna l'importanza della famiglia, dell'amore e della capacità di superare le avversità.
Tommaso
Il libro racconta del legame speciale che si crea tra Michael e il nonno. Il personaggio del nonno è straordinario: è un uomo saggio, con una grande capacità di ascolto e comprensione e il rapporto tra Michael e il nonno è descritto con una tenerezza e profondità.
Il nonno che aggiustava i sogni è un libro che consiglio vivamente. È una storia che insegna l'importanza della famiglia, dell'amore e della capacità di superare le avversità.
Tommaso
June 7, 2018
This book hooked me from Chapter one. I adored watching the relationship between Mikha’el and his grandfather develop. But then about 1/2 way in a really disturbing dream was described and the beauty of the books was lost. Another reviewer said ‘it got really weird’ and I would have to agree.
August 17, 2021
Fairy tale for grown-ups
September 8, 2024
Bellissimo, scritto molto bene
February 3, 2020
sdfgsdfsdf
December 8, 2014
Orlev, U., & Halkin, H. (2010). The Song of the Whales. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children.
Booklist Review *Starred Review
Fiction Choice - Fantasy
Michael is a young boy who lives in the state of New York. He is not like other kids. He does not have friends and likes to spend time with adults. He helps different adults around his town doing small jobs and becoming their friend. He learns that his family is moving to Jerusalem to be near his grandfather. He is sad about moving but upon his arrival he learns that he loves his grandfather very much. His grandfather and him have a lot in common and he spends a lot of his time with him. Grandfather has a very special secret that he would like to share with Michael but he takes his time to grow his relationship with him first. After grandfather gets sick and moves in with Michael and his parents, he finally shares his secret with Michael. Grandfather can take Michael into his dreams and make them seem real. He can do that with anyone. Sometimes the dreams are really scary and Michael gets afraid, and sometimes the dreams are memories from grandfather's life. He shares with Michael that Michael can also do this with people. Grandfather becomes very sick and Michael is worried. In their last dream together, grandfather's bicycle disintegrates and grandpa tells Michael there is no way for him to get home. Michael pleads with him not to wake up so that he can meet him there again in his dreams. Grandfather says okay and passes away.
I thought this book was very creative. I really liked the idea that it was okay that Michael was different than other children and that was okay. I also wanted to believe that you could take people in dreams and join other people's dreams. I thought it was really well written. I also really loved the relationship that Michael and his grandfather created. The whole book was very touching.
I would use this book for a literature circle. I think it is a great book for a group that maybe is not the strongest of readers because it flowed so well. It was also a great story to use as an example of symbols.
Booklist Review *Starred Review
Fiction Choice - Fantasy
Michael is a young boy who lives in the state of New York. He is not like other kids. He does not have friends and likes to spend time with adults. He helps different adults around his town doing small jobs and becoming their friend. He learns that his family is moving to Jerusalem to be near his grandfather. He is sad about moving but upon his arrival he learns that he loves his grandfather very much. His grandfather and him have a lot in common and he spends a lot of his time with him. Grandfather has a very special secret that he would like to share with Michael but he takes his time to grow his relationship with him first. After grandfather gets sick and moves in with Michael and his parents, he finally shares his secret with Michael. Grandfather can take Michael into his dreams and make them seem real. He can do that with anyone. Sometimes the dreams are really scary and Michael gets afraid, and sometimes the dreams are memories from grandfather's life. He shares with Michael that Michael can also do this with people. Grandfather becomes very sick and Michael is worried. In their last dream together, grandfather's bicycle disintegrates and grandpa tells Michael there is no way for him to get home. Michael pleads with him not to wake up so that he can meet him there again in his dreams. Grandfather says okay and passes away.
I thought this book was very creative. I really liked the idea that it was okay that Michael was different than other children and that was okay. I also wanted to believe that you could take people in dreams and join other people's dreams. I thought it was really well written. I also really loved the relationship that Michael and his grandfather created. The whole book was very touching.
I would use this book for a literature circle. I think it is a great book for a group that maybe is not the strongest of readers because it flowed so well. It was also a great story to use as an example of symbols.
April 10, 2010
It is not always that you get to read about dreams. And this little book for kids does just that. This book is about Michael or Mikha'el (Mee-kha-EL - that's how his name was pronounced in Israel) who has to move to Jerusalem from Washington because his parents want to be near his old Grandpa. Michael is not like kids his age, he doesn't have friends his age and mingles well with grown - ups and likes to help them with there work. His parents who are always busy with work have little to no time for him. He is worried about the move, but soon comes to like the new place and his Grandpa too. His Grandpa becomes his only and best friend and loves his house as well. But his Grandpa has a secret, he can take anyone into his dreams! And he takes Michael with him into his dreams as well. From them on, every now and them Michael and his Grandpa have fun adventures in his Grandpa's dream. They both enjoy it immensely and slowly Michael comes to understand and adore his Grandpa more than anyone!
More than anything, it is the simplicity with which this story is told that tugs at your heart. The importance of dreams and the need to "repair" the sad and bad ones is beautifully brought about. To put in a little sweetness in to a sad dream, or to mix in a bit of hope into it... that we have the power to change the dreams... is beautifully portrayed in this small story.
There is something very nice and sweet about this story and my review, I am sure, does not do it justice it deserves. But I would definitely want to get hold of the book and read it to my kid someday. I like to believe that this will definitely be something that we will both enjoy.
Highly recommended for kids and older kids like me ;-).
Thanks to NetGalley for my copy of this book.
More than anything, it is the simplicity with which this story is told that tugs at your heart. The importance of dreams and the need to "repair" the sad and bad ones is beautifully brought about. To put in a little sweetness in to a sad dream, or to mix in a bit of hope into it... that we have the power to change the dreams... is beautifully portrayed in this small story.
There is something very nice and sweet about this story and my review, I am sure, does not do it justice it deserves. But I would definitely want to get hold of the book and read it to my kid someday. I like to believe that this will definitely be something that we will both enjoy.
Highly recommended for kids and older kids like me ;-).
Thanks to NetGalley for my copy of this book.
August 24, 2010
Imagine meeting your grandfather for the first time because your family moves to be closer to him before he dies. Imagine what it would be like if you could draw people into your dreams and enter theirs. Imagine if this was the gift your grandfather gave you.
Mikha’el is 10 years old when he moves with his parents from New York to Jerusalem to be closer to his grandfather who is old and sick. He instantly bonds with his grandfather and they start spending all their free time together. Mikha’el starts to have dreams where he sees his grandfather in one form or another. At first he is puzzled at how his grandfather seems to know what he dreamt about, but then he finds out that his grandfather can pull other people into his dreams. Grandfather is able to pass this skill on to Mikha’el and give him a beautiful gift, the ability to “sweeten” people’s dreams.
A nice glimpse into life in a foreign country as seen through the eyes of a boy arriving there as a foreigner. The relationship between Mikha'el and Grandpa is realistic (every child should be so lucky), and while these characters develop, the mother and father remain part of the background. Grandpa's caretaker's character, Madame Saupier, develops during the brief novel and adds another layer of depth to the story. The third person narrator lets the reader know Mikha'el's thoughts and feelings without bogging down the narrative.
This is a magical book that reads like a sweet dream. Give it to thoughtful readers who liked Neil Gaiman's Odd and the Frost Giants, Kate DiCamillo's The Magician's Elephant and Grace Lin's Where the Mountain Meets the Moon.
Mikha’el is 10 years old when he moves with his parents from New York to Jerusalem to be closer to his grandfather who is old and sick. He instantly bonds with his grandfather and they start spending all their free time together. Mikha’el starts to have dreams where he sees his grandfather in one form or another. At first he is puzzled at how his grandfather seems to know what he dreamt about, but then he finds out that his grandfather can pull other people into his dreams. Grandfather is able to pass this skill on to Mikha’el and give him a beautiful gift, the ability to “sweeten” people’s dreams.
A nice glimpse into life in a foreign country as seen through the eyes of a boy arriving there as a foreigner. The relationship between Mikha'el and Grandpa is realistic (every child should be so lucky), and while these characters develop, the mother and father remain part of the background. Grandpa's caretaker's character, Madame Saupier, develops during the brief novel and adds another layer of depth to the story. The third person narrator lets the reader know Mikha'el's thoughts and feelings without bogging down the narrative.
This is a magical book that reads like a sweet dream. Give it to thoughtful readers who liked Neil Gaiman's Odd and the Frost Giants, Kate DiCamillo's The Magician's Elephant and Grace Lin's Where the Mountain Meets the Moon.
February 2, 2011
Michael is a ten-year-old boy who finds it easier to get along with adults than kids his age. He has many adult friends in his neighbourhood who he assists in their various vocations: Mr. Rapp the jeweller, Mr. O’Grady the junk dealer, and Mr. Albert the Bookbinder. Each of these relationships fosters a particular love for Michael - for gems, keys, and books - which he in turn collects.
Michael’s family moves from Port Washington to Jerusalem to be closer to Michael’s elderly grandfather. Michael’s grandfather, Raphael Hammerman, was previously an antique dealer and the two become close allies. Michael’s grandfather, whom he calls Mikha’el, takes his grandson through the various rooms of his stately house as well as Jerusalem’s old streets and fills him with stories. On Wednesday evenings, they dress in dirty old clothes and head out into the streets with grandfather’s knife grinder to sharpen knives and scissors for the villagers.
One day, Mikha’el’s grandfather plays him and CD of whale songs, and takes Mikha’el into his dreams. In the dream world, grandfather and grandson have many incredible experiences; some as exhilarating as flying, others as terrifying as waiting to be served for dinner at a restaurant. Now, when they head out on their weekly repair trip, instead of sharpening knives they repair dreams.
What follows is the incredible telling of Mikha’el’s foremost apprenticeship.
Michael’s family moves from Port Washington to Jerusalem to be closer to Michael’s elderly grandfather. Michael’s grandfather, Raphael Hammerman, was previously an antique dealer and the two become close allies. Michael’s grandfather, whom he calls Mikha’el, takes his grandson through the various rooms of his stately house as well as Jerusalem’s old streets and fills him with stories. On Wednesday evenings, they dress in dirty old clothes and head out into the streets with grandfather’s knife grinder to sharpen knives and scissors for the villagers.
One day, Mikha’el’s grandfather plays him and CD of whale songs, and takes Mikha’el into his dreams. In the dream world, grandfather and grandson have many incredible experiences; some as exhilarating as flying, others as terrifying as waiting to be served for dinner at a restaurant. Now, when they head out on their weekly repair trip, instead of sharpening knives they repair dreams.
What follows is the incredible telling of Mikha’el’s foremost apprenticeship.
August 13, 2011
This book is quite unusual that was suggested in the international children's group on Goodreads, for this month.
This is a short novel about a boy called Mikha'el who feels more comfortable interacting with older people. When his family moves from New York to Israel he learns about his grandfathers' secret, he can share his dreams while sleeping. The relationship between Mikha'el and his grandfather strengthens as he learns more about it and they his grandfather brings him into his dreams. Some of the dreams are scary, but surprisingly Mikha'el continues to want to join his grandfather in his dreams. We later discover that the grandfather has a purpose. He is in charge of sweetening dreams, his own and those from others. The end is actually beautiful, Mikha'el receives a key from his grandfather that gives him the power of entering dreams, and he accompanies his grandfather in one last dream before he passes away.
It took me several weeks to finish reading this book even though it is not long. As I reflect on this I think it was because, in reading it, it felt a bit like you are entering someone else's life and that made it awkward.
This is a short novel about a boy called Mikha'el who feels more comfortable interacting with older people. When his family moves from New York to Israel he learns about his grandfathers' secret, he can share his dreams while sleeping. The relationship between Mikha'el and his grandfather strengthens as he learns more about it and they his grandfather brings him into his dreams. Some of the dreams are scary, but surprisingly Mikha'el continues to want to join his grandfather in his dreams. We later discover that the grandfather has a purpose. He is in charge of sweetening dreams, his own and those from others. The end is actually beautiful, Mikha'el receives a key from his grandfather that gives him the power of entering dreams, and he accompanies his grandfather in one last dream before he passes away.
It took me several weeks to finish reading this book even though it is not long. As I reflect on this I think it was because, in reading it, it felt a bit like you are entering someone else's life and that made it awkward.
May 13, 2010
There were some nice images and moments in this book, but it was also a bit creepy. The grandson and grandfather kept climbing into one another's beds to share their dreams (literally), and each time that was mentioned I was bothered just a bit by it. And some of the dreams were nice but some were manipulative of other people and sometimes the grandfather was hurtful.
Product Description
Michael’s grandfather has a secret—a secret that’s almost too strange to share . . .
When Michael moves to Israel, he leaves loneliness behind and steps into the light of his grandfather’s magic. Like a sorcerer’s apprentice, Michael learns how to blur the lines between dreams and reality when his grandfather hands down the most precious of gifts—a gift that allows Michael passage into his grandfather’s dreams.
Written with a quiet simplicity that wins the reader over at once Uri Orlev writes in a style so sure and yet so unassuming that it is certain to linger in reader’s minds long after turning the last page.
Product Description
Michael’s grandfather has a secret—a secret that’s almost too strange to share . . .
When Michael moves to Israel, he leaves loneliness behind and steps into the light of his grandfather’s magic. Like a sorcerer’s apprentice, Michael learns how to blur the lines between dreams and reality when his grandfather hands down the most precious of gifts—a gift that allows Michael passage into his grandfather’s dreams.
Written with a quiet simplicity that wins the reader over at once Uri Orlev writes in a style so sure and yet so unassuming that it is certain to linger in reader’s minds long after turning the last page.
September 20, 2010
I wanted to read this book when I noticed the author had won the Hans Christian Andersen Award (presented by the International Board on Books for Young People for an author's body of work). The author, Uri Orlev, is Israeli. In this story Michael and his family move from New York to Jerusalem in order to be near his aging grandfather. Michael (now called Mikha'el) is an introvert, something of a loner, who prefers the company of adults. He and his grandfather become fast friends. His grandfather is guarded by a housekeeper, Madame Saupier, who doesn't like "germy" children. It is hinted that she is a "kept woman" out to get Grandfather's large house after his death. She comes across as a rather unlikeable character. Grandfather shares his gift of entering other people's dreams with Michael. Michael often creeps into his grandfather's bed at night in order to enter his dreams. As other reviewers have noted, I found this a bit distasteful, but perhaps it is a cultural squeamishness on my part. Be that as it may, it is an odd little book.
September 30, 2011
What an odd story. On so many levels I struggled with this book, but what made me dislike it the most is the fact that I think it's just too strange to connect with children. The story is disjointed, often popping into a new scene without warning, and the words don't always seem to sit nicely next to one another either. For a typical English-speaking child, I think they would be lost and wandering all the way through this story.
Now, if he had written this book for adults then I would like it better. There is some lovely prose, and the idea of sharing dreams is sort of original, (though maybe a bit disturbing and unbelievable). But even then, we lose Mr. O'Grady somewhere along the way, the idea of a whale song is never brought to full fruition, and the boy never really seems to change throughout the book or overcome any of his personal struggles--
I don't know. Thank goodness the book was short and I am done. I can't say I feel inspired to read any of his other pieces, despite the fact that he won the very prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Medal...
Now, if he had written this book for adults then I would like it better. There is some lovely prose, and the idea of sharing dreams is sort of original, (though maybe a bit disturbing and unbelievable). But even then, we lose Mr. O'Grady somewhere along the way, the idea of a whale song is never brought to full fruition, and the boy never really seems to change throughout the book or overcome any of his personal struggles--
I don't know. Thank goodness the book was short and I am done. I can't say I feel inspired to read any of his other pieces, despite the fact that he won the very prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Medal...
May 3, 2010
I thought this was a beautiful, poignant story of the love between a grandson and his grandfather, but not one that most children will be likely to pick up. The sensibility is better for adults. The story is simple on the surface--a boy and his family move back to Israel, supposedly to take care of an aging grandfather but their real reason seems to be to make sure that the grandfather's younger housekeeper/companion does not wind up inheriting the entire sizeable estate. The boy has never fit in, either in the U.S. or in Israel, but it turns out he shares a special gift with his grandfather--the ability to share people's dreams with them. The dream sequences range from amusing to downright nightmarish, and lead up to the inevitable death of the beloved grandfather. Told from the perspective of a 9-year old, this is nonetheless a novel better suited for older readers or even adults.
November 26, 2012
Reviewed by Kira M for TeensReadToo.com
When Michael's family moves to Israel to be closer to family, Michael quickly strikes up a friendship with his grandfather. As time goes by, the elderly man shows the boy how he can control his dreams and be with his grandfather in the dream world.
Dangers in the form of his grandfather's failing health and an overbearing housekeeper threaten to end the two's friendship. Will Michael be able to continue enjoying his grandfather's dreams with him, or will their special time soon end?
A fun, lighthearted story despite the underlying saddening problems with the grandfather's health. The plot is interesting, and the characters are memorable and likeable. Readers who like fantasy, dreams, and spending time with their own grandparents will enjoy reading THE SONG OF THE WHALES.
When Michael's family moves to Israel to be closer to family, Michael quickly strikes up a friendship with his grandfather. As time goes by, the elderly man shows the boy how he can control his dreams and be with his grandfather in the dream world.
Dangers in the form of his grandfather's failing health and an overbearing housekeeper threaten to end the two's friendship. Will Michael be able to continue enjoying his grandfather's dreams with him, or will their special time soon end?
A fun, lighthearted story despite the underlying saddening problems with the grandfather's health. The plot is interesting, and the characters are memorable and likeable. Readers who like fantasy, dreams, and spending time with their own grandparents will enjoy reading THE SONG OF THE WHALES.
November 29, 2022
Meriterebbe 3.5★
In generale la trama è molto carina ma la scrittura in alcuni punti lascia a desiderare. Per esempio ci sono delle frasi che non hanno proprio senso e rallentano molto la lettura, non ho idea se questo sia a causa della traduzione o dell'autore, non avendo letto altri suoi libri. Sta di fatto che queste frasi non mi hanno permesso di apprezzare il finale, cosa che ha pesato molto sulla mia valutazione. Un'altro punto a sfavore di questo libro è che ho trovato difficile affezionarsi ai personaggi; in così poche pagine è effettivamente già difficile di suo, ma l'autore non ha aiutato.
In conclusione lo consiglio a chi cerca un storia con un bel rapporto nonno-nipote, e non lo consiglio a chi cerca di uscire dal blocco del lettore.
In generale la trama è molto carina ma la scrittura in alcuni punti lascia a desiderare. Per esempio ci sono delle frasi che non hanno proprio senso e rallentano molto la lettura, non ho idea se questo sia a causa della traduzione o dell'autore, non avendo letto altri suoi libri. Sta di fatto che queste frasi non mi hanno permesso di apprezzare il finale, cosa che ha pesato molto sulla mia valutazione. Un'altro punto a sfavore di questo libro è che ho trovato difficile affezionarsi ai personaggi; in così poche pagine è effettivamente già difficile di suo, ma l'autore non ha aiutato.
In conclusione lo consiglio a chi cerca un storia con un bel rapporto nonno-nipote, e non lo consiglio a chi cerca di uscire dal blocco del lettore.
August 12, 2011
Michael and his parents leave their home in Port Washington and move to Israel to be near Michael's aging grandfather. Michael soon discovers that he and has grandfather are both handy and they become inseparable. Michael's grandfather has a magical talent involving dreams and he shares this Michael.
Orlev creates an amazing voice for Michael. His narrative is mesmerizing and most definitely pulls the reader into the story. I was intrigued by the grandfather's talent and will think of he and Michael when I have a memorable dream.
Orlev creates an amazing voice for Michael. His narrative is mesmerizing and most definitely pulls the reader into the story. I was intrigued by the grandfather's talent and will think of he and Michael when I have a memorable dream.
July 7, 2010
Small book, very odd, I don't know what kids would like it. Kind of magical realism. Self proclaimed different kid learns how to be a dream master from his grandfather after his family moves to Israel to be there and make sure to collect their inheritance rather than having it go to the housekeeper. The real inheritance is not the stuff. If I am still thinking about this book in a month or so I'll up it to 4.
August 10, 2016
Originally written in Hebrew and winner of the Hans Christian Andersen medal. This is a small, strange, quiet book in which the boy enters his grandfather's sometimes troubling dreams. in the end the grandfather dies. There is also an adult theme of the grandfather's housekeeper (a "kept woman" according the the boy's parents) breaking up with the grandfather. I can't imagine many children really enjoying this book. Probably only very serious or artistic children.
October 31, 2014
I really enjoy well written books for children so I picked this one after seeing a film review for Run Boy Run by the same author - couldn't find Run Boy Run to read that one.
This has a very unusual plot and good character development. It does not pull any punches and has a good flow to it. Theme? Life is terribly hard and kids are not protected from that. And old things, including people, are highly precious.
This has a very unusual plot and good character development. It does not pull any punches and has a good flow to it. Theme? Life is terribly hard and kids are not protected from that. And old things, including people, are highly precious.
January 26, 2011
Michael's family moves to Israel to be near his grandfather, and as he grows closer to his grandfather, Michael discovers his grandfather's secret ability to manipulate dreams. While the grandfather's relationship with his housekeeper and some unusual imagery makes this unsuitable for religious audiences, the magical realism and intergenerational relationship make for a powerful read.
August 16, 2011
Short, sweet story. Michael's family has just moved to Israel to be near his grandfather. Michael has always felt different and gotten along better with grown ups than other kids. Then Michael learns that his grandfather has a unique talent to take others into his dreams as well as to fix other people's dreams.
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