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The Boy Who Painted the World
Indigo is a boy with a dream. He spends his mornings in a refrigerator box, his afternoons shoveling snow, and his nights in the basement of a homeless shelter. But during every free moment, he draws and dreams of becoming a famous artist. His best friend Jade looks after him, but she is arrested for shoplifting and he’s left all alone. With his box of pencils under his arm, he sets out on a quest to search for Jade and discovers a whole new world… full of the art he loves.
His journey brings him friendship, family, and the courage to hold onto his dreams.
His journey brings him friendship, family, and the courage to hold onto his dreams.
256 pages, ebook
Published January 1, 2017
149 people are currently reading
614 people want to read
About the author
Melody J. Bremen
11 books104 followersMelody J. Bremen writes books for middle grade readers. She lives on a distant planet where all they do is write and read books. (Sometimes they eat jelly beans.) She has a faithful computer named Oswald.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
June 28, 2024
Awesome book. I hear the author isn't too bad either.
August 27, 2017
The Boy Paints
I got The Boy Who Painted The World by Melody J Bremen for my 12 year old grandson and decided I should read the book first just in case my grandson shouldn't read it because it wasn't appropriate! I am so glad I read this book myself because this book was very enjoyable for any middle grade children and anyone else including my age as a senior citizen! Just for the lessons learned by this boy during the different stages of this boy's life from the age of five years and up, this book is worth reading! Why a mother would abandon her child is beyond me, but the people he meets are outstanding enablers that help him and are my favorite characters in their own way! I will be sure to get my grandson to read this book!
I got The Boy Who Painted The World by Melody J Bremen for my 12 year old grandson and decided I should read the book first just in case my grandson shouldn't read it because it wasn't appropriate! I am so glad I read this book myself because this book was very enjoyable for any middle grade children and anyone else including my age as a senior citizen! Just for the lessons learned by this boy during the different stages of this boy's life from the age of five years and up, this book is worth reading! Why a mother would abandon her child is beyond me, but the people he meets are outstanding enablers that help him and are my favorite characters in their own way! I will be sure to get my grandson to read this book!
November 13, 2017
This is a quick “feel good” novel about a homeless boy that lives to draw. Issues and conflicts are solved way too easily to be realistic. Since it is written for ages 9-12, that is acceptable. I am basing my 4 star rating on the target age it was intended for. The writing is ok but nothing special and has a childlike innocence which works for the story. This is the first time I have read this author so I am not sure if it intentional for this novel or indicative of her style. I would look for a digital version that can be purchased less inexpensively than a physical copy. If you can read the story without looking for a deeper meaning and simply accept it for its optimistic attitude then it is a sweet story.
January 11, 2018
Very well written, professionally presented tale of survival and personal development. I used to teach middle school in a marginal neighborhood and I think my students would have enjoyed this book about how one abused and neglected child found a way to be happy.
December 13, 2017
The Boy Who Painted the World by Melody J. Bremen is the story of a 10 year old homeless boy, Indigo, who loves to paint and wishes to one day be a famous painter.
This is an incredible story of loss, love, determination, and strength. I felt Indigo's emotions throughout the story. I watched as he grew and became more and more determined to be the painter he always wanted to be. This is a great story for children 9-12, or like me, just a kid at heart.
This is an incredible story of loss, love, determination, and strength. I felt Indigo's emotions throughout the story. I watched as he grew and became more and more determined to be the painter he always wanted to be. This is a great story for children 9-12, or like me, just a kid at heart.
May 16, 2018
Indigo is a boy with a dream.
He spends his mornings in a refrigerator box, his afternoons shoveling snow, and his nights in the basement of a homeless shelter. But during every free moment, he draws and dreams of becoming a famous artist. His best friend Jade looks after him, but she is arrested for shoplifting and he’s left all alone. With his box of pencils under his arm, he sets out on a quest to search for Jade and discovers a whole new world… full of the art he loves.
His journey brings him friendship, family, and the courage to hold onto his dreams. Oh.my.gosh. This book is so amazing! the description was vivid and clear, the characters were deep and each one had his or her own personality. The book was told through the point of view of our main boy Indigo who had such a wonderful dream a dream that i myself share to become a artist (well one of my many dreams^.^) indigo was abandoned by his mother at the age of five, but a sassy and witty girl named jade came along and toke care of him. Jade was amazing she risked everything for indigo even stealing. When jade is taken away indigo meets jesse and his sister keisha two siblings that actually don't mid being related which is rare in MG or any book for that matter. Jesse and keisha work to graffiti over nasty graffiti and make it beautiful. They paint things like rainbows and peace sighs and they were so kind, keisha had a fun and caring soul she wanted to save everyone, jesse was easygoing but deep down you could tell he cared for indigo and his sister. After that indigo finds a tree house which was so CUTE!! i think i have a soft spot for tree houses for various reasons.
He meets a lady named grace who eventually adopts him, Grace was the grandmother i wish but never had, she was smart and kind with a deep love for painting and indigo and every time she was their i just wanted to reach thorough the book and hug her! the relationship with her and her husband was so cute they constantly made jokes and both cared for indigo. He also meets Craig aka green apron earthling:) Craig not only was funny but i think he was a great brother figure for indigo , Craiges brother Jeff was also hilarious. He even meets Lizzie who next to indigo was my favorite character she was bubbly and her cancer did not define her she loved colors and was so optimistic even though she was sick. She played a very big part in the book because she inspired indigos painting. Rafe (graces son) at first was mean to indigo but indigos kindness through out the book not only touched his heart but it also touched the heart of sherry a former friend of graces. Indigo was the sweetest character I've read in along time he was funny and had a never ending well of generosity and he and lizzies friendship was so sweet without being a romance! and a none romantic friendship is so rare in books now and this book showed me it does exist! this book also showed me that there is still some good in the world. This book was true to the dedication "for dreamers everywhere" I actually made a poem of this book its not very good but here it is:
Once upon a time there was a boy with dreams big enough to fill the moon and he knew they'd be real soon.Some people didn't think it was possible but he just laughed picked up a colored pencil and looked for a place to draw, standing tall. Once upon a time there was a boy with the name of indigo who is more special then you could ever know. Once upon a time there was a boy with a dream in his hand and a paint brush in the other and painted the world.(like i said its not very good:)) but i really did love this book please Melody send me three copies! jk just kidding *coughs totally not* it was amazing and know one of my all time favorites!
note: This book was sent to me by the author in exchange for a honest review
He spends his mornings in a refrigerator box, his afternoons shoveling snow, and his nights in the basement of a homeless shelter. But during every free moment, he draws and dreams of becoming a famous artist. His best friend Jade looks after him, but she is arrested for shoplifting and he’s left all alone. With his box of pencils under his arm, he sets out on a quest to search for Jade and discovers a whole new world… full of the art he loves.
His journey brings him friendship, family, and the courage to hold onto his dreams. Oh.my.gosh. This book is so amazing! the description was vivid and clear, the characters were deep and each one had his or her own personality. The book was told through the point of view of our main boy Indigo who had such a wonderful dream a dream that i myself share to become a artist (well one of my many dreams^.^) indigo was abandoned by his mother at the age of five, but a sassy and witty girl named jade came along and toke care of him. Jade was amazing she risked everything for indigo even stealing. When jade is taken away indigo meets jesse and his sister keisha two siblings that actually don't mid being related which is rare in MG or any book for that matter. Jesse and keisha work to graffiti over nasty graffiti and make it beautiful. They paint things like rainbows and peace sighs and they were so kind, keisha had a fun and caring soul she wanted to save everyone, jesse was easygoing but deep down you could tell he cared for indigo and his sister. After that indigo finds a tree house which was so CUTE!! i think i have a soft spot for tree houses for various reasons.
He meets a lady named grace who eventually adopts him, Grace was the grandmother i wish but never had, she was smart and kind with a deep love for painting and indigo and every time she was their i just wanted to reach thorough the book and hug her! the relationship with her and her husband was so cute they constantly made jokes and both cared for indigo. He also meets Craig aka green apron earthling:) Craig not only was funny but i think he was a great brother figure for indigo , Craiges brother Jeff was also hilarious. He even meets Lizzie who next to indigo was my favorite character she was bubbly and her cancer did not define her she loved colors and was so optimistic even though she was sick. She played a very big part in the book because she inspired indigos painting. Rafe (graces son) at first was mean to indigo but indigos kindness through out the book not only touched his heart but it also touched the heart of sherry a former friend of graces. Indigo was the sweetest character I've read in along time he was funny and had a never ending well of generosity and he and lizzies friendship was so sweet without being a romance! and a none romantic friendship is so rare in books now and this book showed me it does exist! this book also showed me that there is still some good in the world. This book was true to the dedication "for dreamers everywhere" I actually made a poem of this book its not very good but here it is:
Once upon a time there was a boy with dreams big enough to fill the moon and he knew they'd be real soon.Some people didn't think it was possible but he just laughed picked up a colored pencil and looked for a place to draw, standing tall. Once upon a time there was a boy with the name of indigo who is more special then you could ever know. Once upon a time there was a boy with a dream in his hand and a paint brush in the other and painted the world.(like i said its not very good:)) but i really did love this book please Melody send me three copies! jk just kidding *coughs totally not* it was amazing and know one of my all time favorites!
note: This book was sent to me by the author in exchange for a honest review
March 15, 2019
An adorable, heartwarming read. And that cover is gorgeousness.
September 29, 2023
4.25/5. Such a kind story. Sometimes a bit too sweet and simplified. But definitely recommended. Especially for those who still doubts in the timeless power of goodness.
March 25, 2019
A great feel good story.
October 12, 2017
This is one of those stories which touches the heart, tears at it, makes it warm and leaves with a sense of dreams and inspiration.
Indigo's mother left him standing on a street when he was five. Luckily, he met a girl named Jade, who took him in and taught him love. But when she's caught by police for stealing, Indigo's left to tackle the world alone. Armed with colored pencils, whatever paper he can find on the streets and a dream he refuses to let go of, he discovers the world in all of it's harshness and warmth.
The opening pages already demand a wave of sympathy as Indigo, a unsuspecting boy, is left standing on a street, told by his mother to wait until she returns. Which she doesn't. Indigo has it rough. Every day is a battle for food and shelter, but he doesn't ever let this get him down. He accepts it as a simple fact of life and keeps his eyes focused on one thing—his art. His desire to earn his food through whatever work he can find, his ability to never grow bitter and his undying spirit make him a true hero any reader will want to embrace and never let go of.
The author does an amazing job of describing Indigo's world and all of it's hardships. It pulls at the heart-strings, but at the same time, never bogs down completely. The situation is understandable, when seen from Indigo's stand-point, and there exceptional role models appear at various times through-out the story. There's harshness and hope. At the same time, it's told in a very believable way. Not only is Indigo's world realistic, but Indigo himself is a child, speaks like a child, and dreams like a child. There are moments of humor lightly sprinkled in and a sense of pureness which can only be seen through a child's eyes. Young readers will easily connect to Indigo, feel for him, understand him and enjoy following him. And, at the end, they'll be left with something to think about.
Summed up, this is one of the best middle grade stories I've read this year, and I can only hope that many young readers get a chance to meet Indigo and experience his journey.
I received a complimentary copy and loved this book so much that I wanted to share my honest thoughts.
Indigo's mother left him standing on a street when he was five. Luckily, he met a girl named Jade, who took him in and taught him love. But when she's caught by police for stealing, Indigo's left to tackle the world alone. Armed with colored pencils, whatever paper he can find on the streets and a dream he refuses to let go of, he discovers the world in all of it's harshness and warmth.
The opening pages already demand a wave of sympathy as Indigo, a unsuspecting boy, is left standing on a street, told by his mother to wait until she returns. Which she doesn't. Indigo has it rough. Every day is a battle for food and shelter, but he doesn't ever let this get him down. He accepts it as a simple fact of life and keeps his eyes focused on one thing—his art. His desire to earn his food through whatever work he can find, his ability to never grow bitter and his undying spirit make him a true hero any reader will want to embrace and never let go of.
The author does an amazing job of describing Indigo's world and all of it's hardships. It pulls at the heart-strings, but at the same time, never bogs down completely. The situation is understandable, when seen from Indigo's stand-point, and there exceptional role models appear at various times through-out the story. There's harshness and hope. At the same time, it's told in a very believable way. Not only is Indigo's world realistic, but Indigo himself is a child, speaks like a child, and dreams like a child. There are moments of humor lightly sprinkled in and a sense of pureness which can only be seen through a child's eyes. Young readers will easily connect to Indigo, feel for him, understand him and enjoy following him. And, at the end, they'll be left with something to think about.
Summed up, this is one of the best middle grade stories I've read this year, and I can only hope that many young readers get a chance to meet Indigo and experience his journey.
I received a complimentary copy and loved this book so much that I wanted to share my honest thoughts.
July 15, 2017
I was excited to read this book and read up to Chapter 20 in one sitting! Indigo is a fitting name, meaning a deep blue or purple, which brought to mind the colour of a fresh bruise. Especially apt for a young boy who dreams of being a painter. The character of Indigo is likable, if at times naïve. Yet, don’t get me wrong he is not false naïve: Indigo acted young for the average ten year olds I know, but this worked well in the context on his upbringing: on the streets since he was five, with no schooling and with little access to technology. Other characters, especially a homeless teenager, Jade, Craig who sees Indigo skip diving and Grace, the painter, felt like real people.
There were many moments that resonated with me as a reader, so I would recommend this book. At times this scaffolding of the story is too obvious for older readers, but that does not make Indigo’s journey lose its charm. I expected yet did not expect the narrative threads that arose in all their entirety. This was a nice mix which made the story credible. In order not to given anything away to the reader’s self-discover, I will simply state that at one moment Indigo’s story of his own self-discovery prompted tears.
As the plot tackles themes of abandonment, resilience, openness, poverty, generosity, ambitions, friendship and family I think this could be a very popular book for school libraries. It is also a great book for younger readers, to inspire them towards positive perspectives. Publishers would make a big mistake not to pick it up and promote it. This is a book with art on every page. Literally.
There were many moments that resonated with me as a reader, so I would recommend this book. At times this scaffolding of the story is too obvious for older readers, but that does not make Indigo’s journey lose its charm. I expected yet did not expect the narrative threads that arose in all their entirety. This was a nice mix which made the story credible. In order not to given anything away to the reader’s self-discover, I will simply state that at one moment Indigo’s story of his own self-discovery prompted tears.
As the plot tackles themes of abandonment, resilience, openness, poverty, generosity, ambitions, friendship and family I think this could be a very popular book for school libraries. It is also a great book for younger readers, to inspire them towards positive perspectives. Publishers would make a big mistake not to pick it up and promote it. This is a book with art on every page. Literally.
August 3, 2017
Thoughts: This book was out of this world. I thought this book would be okay, but nothing prepared me for this. I loved how Melody J. Breman made every single thing in the book, whether it was small or big, seem like you knew what was happening, when you really didn't. There was tons of surprises. I also loved the main character - Indigo - is always able to find the silver lining, or look on the bright side of things. This was very inspiring, making Indigo a great role model. For example, when Jane, his best freind, (spoiler) got arested for shoplifting, Indigo never gives up, and, even in the worst of times, still follows his dreams. Overall, this was an amazing, emotional, realistic fiction book.
June 16, 2020
This is a positive, refreshing book about a young boy who is a survivor. Despite being abandoned by his mother at age five and forced to live on the streets, taken care of by a teenage girl, Indigo keeps a positive attitude. His dream of becoming a famous artist keeps him going through many a dire situation. Best of all, this book crosses all ethnicities to the point where the story is the important thing, not what ethnic group you "belong" to. While the ending is predictable, I'm a sucker for happy endings, and this didn't disappoint.
January 5, 2023
My daughter first read this book this past summer at the age of 10. It quickly became her favorite book. She received a paperback copy for Christmas this year and she begged me to read it and I agreed. I have to admit, she was right, it is an incredible book and I couldn’t put it down. This book is inspiring and filled with so much encouragement, emotion, and dreaming. It even brought me to tears, more than once. I am so happy I listened to my daughter. Thank you, Melody Bremen, for writing such a wonderful book and inspiring my daughter and myself.
August 11, 2017
This is a beautifully written and touching story, which I highly recommend. Indigo is a wonderful character, and his story will capture your attention - not to mention, your heart - from the start.
*NOTE: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. This fact has in no way influenced either my opinion of the book or the contents of this review.
*NOTE: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. This fact has in no way influenced either my opinion of the book or the contents of this review.
October 31, 2017
This was great. The ebook I had, had a few places where the pages or sections were duplicated, so I think I missed a little info....I really liked Indigo. A lot. I loved his take on life despite having such a difficult one.
August 13, 2017
It's a simple feel-good story
But really, sometimes you just need that. A simple, heartwarming story in which you know everything will be OK. Perfect comfort reading.
But really, sometimes you just need that. A simple, heartwarming story in which you know everything will be OK. Perfect comfort reading.
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March 14, 2024This book was so good when I read it in the 6th grade
January 12, 2025
When I read the beginning of this story, I found it a little hard to believe. A mother abandons her five-year-old son, Indigo, and leaves him coloring on the sidewalk. Jade, a homeless teenage girl, starts caring for him on the streets. They form a close friendship, and she becomes like an older sister to him. Living on the street means facing the daily struggles of finding food and shelter. They learn to get by, doing whatever is necessary. Indigo often earns money by shoveling sidewalks for people. When he gets sores on his hands, Jade decides to steal some Vaseline to put on his wounds. When she gets arrested for shoplifting, Indigo is suddenly all alone.
Indigo, now ten, encounters several different people that try and provide him help for short periods of time while he follows his dream of making art whenever he can.
The second half of the story is very moving. Indigo longs to one day be reunited with Jade. He lives in a tree house for a time until he meets an adult artist named Grace. They change each other's lives for the better. Indigo's kind heart won me over, and I loved the last 2/3 of the book. Author Melody Bremen touches on so many big issues such as abandonment, poverty, homelessness, and resiliency in a sensitive manner. As a former teacher, I would recommend this story for strong 3rd and 4th grade readers.
Indigo, now ten, encounters several different people that try and provide him help for short periods of time while he follows his dream of making art whenever he can.
The second half of the story is very moving. Indigo longs to one day be reunited with Jade. He lives in a tree house for a time until he meets an adult artist named Grace. They change each other's lives for the better. Indigo's kind heart won me over, and I loved the last 2/3 of the book. Author Melody Bremen touches on so many big issues such as abandonment, poverty, homelessness, and resiliency in a sensitive manner. As a former teacher, I would recommend this story for strong 3rd and 4th grade readers.
March 31, 2019
I've been trying to add more Middle Grade and Young Adult books to my To Be Read pile, not only to appeal to more types of readers, but also to get an idea of what younger people are reading. I have a twelve-year-old stepdaughter, and I would love for her to have as much joy in reading as I do.
This book is one of the most heartwarming books I have ever read. It is at times devastating, always endearing, and just an all around great read. It's a little bittersweet for me, because I finished reading it in the emergency room this evening with my three-year-old, who broke his leg today. I shed tears over this book and over my son and over lost kids everywhere who hopefully will one day find a home and their place in society.
The only thing keeping this from being a five-star review is some minor editing issues I noticed while reading, but that does not keep me from yelling from the rooftops for everyone, young and old, to read this book! You will not be disappointed.
Four out of five stars.
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This book is one of the most heartwarming books I have ever read. It is at times devastating, always endearing, and just an all around great read. It's a little bittersweet for me, because I finished reading it in the emergency room this evening with my three-year-old, who broke his leg today. I shed tears over this book and over my son and over lost kids everywhere who hopefully will one day find a home and their place in society.
The only thing keeping this from being a five-star review is some minor editing issues I noticed while reading, but that does not keep me from yelling from the rooftops for everyone, young and old, to read this book! You will not be disappointed.
Four out of five stars.
Blog: https://mbeckelhimerbookreviews.blogs...
Facebook: www.facebook.com/MBeckelhimerBookReviews
November 17, 2025
4.5!
I read this book after I read the companion, From the Desk of Lizzie Lazowski, but either can be read as a stand alone. However, if you read both, you have the joy of reconnecting with the characters from the other book.
I really love Melody J. Bremen's writing. This book follows Indigo, who is homeless and at first is being taken care of by Jade, a homeless teen. When she gets arrested when Indigo is 10, he is on his own to find food and shelter. That set up alone was enough to keep me turning the page. But what I loved most about this book is that while Indigo had challenges, he also met with kindness along the way. Some may say that is unrealistic, but in this day of so many books intent on showing how dark life can be, I loved that this book showed how much good and kind people can be. And then Indigo is just such a tremendous character, impacting all those around him. In so many ways, this reminded me of the wonderful film, Life is Beautiful.
If you need to be cheered up, this is a great choice!
Review on my blog: https://jennienzor.blogspot.com/2025/...
I read this book after I read the companion, From the Desk of Lizzie Lazowski, but either can be read as a stand alone. However, if you read both, you have the joy of reconnecting with the characters from the other book.
I really love Melody J. Bremen's writing. This book follows Indigo, who is homeless and at first is being taken care of by Jade, a homeless teen. When she gets arrested when Indigo is 10, he is on his own to find food and shelter. That set up alone was enough to keep me turning the page. But what I loved most about this book is that while Indigo had challenges, he also met with kindness along the way. Some may say that is unrealistic, but in this day of so many books intent on showing how dark life can be, I loved that this book showed how much good and kind people can be. And then Indigo is just such a tremendous character, impacting all those around him. In so many ways, this reminded me of the wonderful film, Life is Beautiful.
If you need to be cheered up, this is a great choice!
Review on my blog: https://jennienzor.blogspot.com/2025/...
March 26, 2021
This short middle-grade story addresses the issues of mental illness, family relationships, and friendship. Based on an old Russian fairy-tale, it reverts to the familiar character of a princess and her privileged upbringing.
Princess Devina is about to turn sixteen. The king and queen are perplexed about her mental state. She rarely emerges from her room and never smiles. Her parents hatch a plot to invite princes to come to the kingdom and try their hand at making Devina smile. That plan becomes a dismal failure.
One day Devina encounters a peasant girl named Yasmin who has been employed in the castle kitchen. Yasmin has a outgoing personality and is a favorite among the village children. Yasmin proves to be the medicine that Devina needs, particularly when she faces a crisis with the Queen's health.
This light and airy story becomes the perfect setting for a presentation of serious issues like depression, mental health, and fitting in with one's peers. I would suggest this short novel for middle-grade readers as an introduction to discussion about these issues.
Princess Devina is about to turn sixteen. The king and queen are perplexed about her mental state. She rarely emerges from her room and never smiles. Her parents hatch a plot to invite princes to come to the kingdom and try their hand at making Devina smile. That plan becomes a dismal failure.
One day Devina encounters a peasant girl named Yasmin who has been employed in the castle kitchen. Yasmin has a outgoing personality and is a favorite among the village children. Yasmin proves to be the medicine that Devina needs, particularly when she faces a crisis with the Queen's health.
This light and airy story becomes the perfect setting for a presentation of serious issues like depression, mental health, and fitting in with one's peers. I would suggest this short novel for middle-grade readers as an introduction to discussion about these issues.
August 21, 2020
This is an odd little book. It's completely unrealistic - Indigo falls from one miracle into another. A homeless boy who constantly finds people who take care of him, give him food, shelter, crayons to draw with, paints and finally adopt him with no problem. Indigo's problems last a page or two and are resolved. And yet, I enjoyed it.
Description of book:
Indigo is a boy with a dream. He spends his mornings in a refrigerator box, his afternoons shoveling snow, and his nights in the basement of a homeless shelter. But during every free moment, he draws and dreams of becoming a famous artist.His best friend Jade looks after him, but she is arrested for shoplifting and he’s left all alone. With his box of pencils under his arm, he sets out on a quest to search for Jade and discovers a whole new world… full of the art he loves.His journey brings him friendship, family, and the courage to hold onto his dreams.
Description of book:
Indigo is a boy with a dream. He spends his mornings in a refrigerator box, his afternoons shoveling snow, and his nights in the basement of a homeless shelter. But during every free moment, he draws and dreams of becoming a famous artist.His best friend Jade looks after him, but she is arrested for shoplifting and he’s left all alone. With his box of pencils under his arm, he sets out on a quest to search for Jade and discovers a whole new world… full of the art he loves.His journey brings him friendship, family, and the courage to hold onto his dreams.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2019
I downloaded this Kindle book a couple of years ago, intrigued by the title .. I didn't read any blurb, just that the Author mainly wrote YA books ..
At the beginning, I was unsure whether I wanted to read about Indigo and how he became homeless at such a young age .. I was also questioning whether this would be suitable for its intended audience, was it glossing over reality, not making the situation seem hard enough ..
But as you get into the story, the character of Indigo develops and you start to cheer him along in his quest .. you'll have to read the book to find out more
All in all, a delightfully written story, that cleverly disguises its social messages .. Not only about dealing with your problems, but how your dreams are achievable .. that however difficult things may be, you can always do something to help another .. Tissues required ..
At the beginning, I was unsure whether I wanted to read about Indigo and how he became homeless at such a young age .. I was also questioning whether this would be suitable for its intended audience, was it glossing over reality, not making the situation seem hard enough ..
But as you get into the story, the character of Indigo develops and you start to cheer him along in his quest .. you'll have to read the book to find out more
All in all, a delightfully written story, that cleverly disguises its social messages .. Not only about dealing with your problems, but how your dreams are achievable .. that however difficult things may be, you can always do something to help another .. Tissues required ..
October 27, 2022
This is a scary story. I mean, it’s not about murders and zombies and stuff. It’s about a kid who doesn’t have parents or a house to live in, which is really scary if you think about it. I was kind of on the edge of my seat the whole time, worrying where he would spend the night and how he would get food. I guess that’s what it is like for homeless kids.
But there’s other stuff I didn’t know about too, like how it is to think like a real artist. Indigo (that’s the kid, but it’s also the name of a color) loves to draw–no, he lives to draw! And the drawing helps him live too. It keeps him company when he is alone and scared, and it helps him meet some people who are also into art. And pretty soon, he’s bringing art to his whole community! It’s a really exciting story, and I think you’ll like it.
But there’s other stuff I didn’t know about too, like how it is to think like a real artist. Indigo (that’s the kid, but it’s also the name of a color) loves to draw–no, he lives to draw! And the drawing helps him live too. It keeps him company when he is alone and scared, and it helps him meet some people who are also into art. And pretty soon, he’s bringing art to his whole community! It’s a really exciting story, and I think you’ll like it.
January 1, 2020
Oh my Indigo!!! When I chose this book I didn't realize it was a young reader/middle school book. The easy writing style made me think it was simply indicative of a child's perspective. I absolutely adored this!!! So many times I teared up at Indigo's innocence and heartbreaking situation, and prayed that society and humanity would prevail. Reading this through the eyes of a child was both refreshing and hard to do. Imagining yourself in his place and seeing the world through his eyes, all his immediate fears. It was conflicting because here I am, an adult and a mother.... a single mother... reading about this poor baby. But it was worth it. Beautiful story, beautiful art, beautiful ending. Excellent read for your middle 4th graders on up.
April 26, 2020
A powerful book with a simple premise. Ten year old Indigo is homeless, having been “abandoned” by his mother and found by another struggling woman, Jade. Indigo survives on the streets and sometimes in the basement of shelters when Jade can help. One day, Jade is attested for shoplifting Vaseline - meant to help Indigo’s chapped and bleeding hands. Indigo is left to fend for himself. What happens next is completely oversimplified and a bit unrealistic, but that’s ok because it allows the reader to see the big picture and the lesson the author is trying to teach about homeless kids and their grit to survive and their desire for security and a family. Great for a fifth grade/early 6th grade reader who loves art and heartwarming stories.
November 23, 2023
Sweet story of a young boy who was abandoned by his mother and found by a fellow street child/teenager who nurtured him and made sure he learned how to take care of himself. When she is taken away, he finds ways to cope and survive until he meets others who help him too. He finally connects with an older couple who fight to adopt him. Throughout the book, readers see how important drawing is to him as a lifeline. His new mother is also an artist and encourages him to paint and find his style. Bremen's gentle tone and sharing the positives softens but does not take away the tragedy Indigo has lived through and survived. I love the last painting of his world. He captures the triumphs and love that carry him through.
August 27, 2024
Great story for all ages
I got this book to pre read before offering it to my kids. The cover looks really juvenile, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect as far as content. I really enjoyed this story, though! Its an easy read, but meaningful. I wasn't always sure what to expect... it kept my attention. There's nothing inappropriate. The language is fine. I would let my 7 yr old read it (might be advanced depending on some kids' reading levels though).... and it would be great for my older kids also. Honestly, just a sweet story for all ages. Would make a good read aloud also.
Edited to add: the cover on my book is a cartoon of a boy with a paintbrush. I see there is an alternate (much better) cover out there also!
I got this book to pre read before offering it to my kids. The cover looks really juvenile, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect as far as content. I really enjoyed this story, though! Its an easy read, but meaningful. I wasn't always sure what to expect... it kept my attention. There's nothing inappropriate. The language is fine. I would let my 7 yr old read it (might be advanced depending on some kids' reading levels though).... and it would be great for my older kids also. Honestly, just a sweet story for all ages. Would make a good read aloud also.
Edited to add: the cover on my book is a cartoon of a boy with a paintbrush. I see there is an alternate (much better) cover out there also!
February 17, 2020
This was such a sweet story about home and family and finding who you are. Indigo is a boy with a dream: he’s going to be a famous artist. With Jade, who looks after him, Indigo lives in a refrigerator box behind Burger King, but when Burger King moves location, and Jade is arrested for stealing, Indigo must move on.
I thought that this book was really sweet and told beautifully through the eyes of a child. I think that it was quite juvenile, but that was before I discovered the protagonist is 10, not 13 as I’d previously thought!
The idea behind this book is so cute, and there were some really strong adult characters who would be great role models for children reading.
I wish the first part had gone a little quicker, as I was just kind of waiting for it to pick up, but overall, I did really enjoy this book and would recommend it to younger readers!
I thought that this book was really sweet and told beautifully through the eyes of a child. I think that it was quite juvenile, but that was before I discovered the protagonist is 10, not 13 as I’d previously thought!
The idea behind this book is so cute, and there were some really strong adult characters who would be great role models for children reading.
I wish the first part had gone a little quicker, as I was just kind of waiting for it to pick up, but overall, I did really enjoy this book and would recommend it to younger readers!
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