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Sleep, Merel, Sleep
Who wants to be awake forever?
Life has changed for eight-year-old Merel. Since the birth of her sick baby brother, her parents seem to have forgotten she exists. But when she finds a tiny silver violin in her bedroom rug, things take a turn for the worse.
Merel learns that her sleep has abandoned her and that she must embark on a perilous journey to recover it or stay awake forever. Together with her devoted toy sheep Roger, tired Merel sets out in search of Lullaby Grove. Before long, she finds herself haunted by a scary stranger.
Follow Merel into a surreal world. Meet a sleepy king with an obsession for feathers and a transparent old man on a night train going nowhere. Discover why the moonfish cry, why you should never walk across the Great Yawns ― and if poor Merel can escape her pursuer, win back her sleep, and realize what matters most in her life.
Life has changed for eight-year-old Merel. Since the birth of her sick baby brother, her parents seem to have forgotten she exists. But when she finds a tiny silver violin in her bedroom rug, things take a turn for the worse.
Merel learns that her sleep has abandoned her and that she must embark on a perilous journey to recover it or stay awake forever. Together with her devoted toy sheep Roger, tired Merel sets out in search of Lullaby Grove. Before long, she finds herself haunted by a scary stranger.
Follow Merel into a surreal world. Meet a sleepy king with an obsession for feathers and a transparent old man on a night train going nowhere. Discover why the moonfish cry, why you should never walk across the Great Yawns ― and if poor Merel can escape her pursuer, win back her sleep, and realize what matters most in her life.
186 pages, Paperback
Published June 7, 2018
23 people want to read
About the author
Silke Stein
10 books121 followersSilke Stein is a graphic designer and author. Silke currently lives at the west coast of Canada, where she combs the shores of the Pacific Ocean and tends to her ever-growing sea glass collection. When she is not at the beach, or writing, she designs book covers for fellow authors.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 14, 2018
This was such a cute children’s book! As a 23 year old with no kids, I’m not necessarily the target audience, but I still liked it.
Since this book was about dreams it gave me a lot of Alice in Wonderland vibes. The main character, Merel, encountered many interesting and unique characters throughout her journey. A few of them reminded me of various Alice characters. For example, King Marmott reminded me of the Queen of Hearts because they were both pretty awful rulers who chased after the title character.
The other characters were great as well. I especially loved Merel’s encounter with the moonfish. That was my favorite part.
The book had a whimsical quality about it that went perfect with the dream theme. The author created a beautiful world with her prose.
I loved how the flashbacks to Merel’s real life were woven into the story. Each little flashback gave insight into Merel, her life, and her sick baby brother.
I would have loved to seen a map or illustrations because I feel like that could take the book to a whole other level.
I also wished the book was a tad bit longer, but that’s probably because I’m an adult not a kid. The book is an appropriate length for a young reader.
Overall, this book was a fun adventure through a child’s dreamland that both kids and adults will enjoy.
For more book reviews, be sure to check out my blog: https://oddandbookish.wordpress.com/
Since this book was about dreams it gave me a lot of Alice in Wonderland vibes. The main character, Merel, encountered many interesting and unique characters throughout her journey. A few of them reminded me of various Alice characters. For example, King Marmott reminded me of the Queen of Hearts because they were both pretty awful rulers who chased after the title character.
The other characters were great as well. I especially loved Merel’s encounter with the moonfish. That was my favorite part.
The book had a whimsical quality about it that went perfect with the dream theme. The author created a beautiful world with her prose.
I loved how the flashbacks to Merel’s real life were woven into the story. Each little flashback gave insight into Merel, her life, and her sick baby brother.
I would have loved to seen a map or illustrations because I feel like that could take the book to a whole other level.
I also wished the book was a tad bit longer, but that’s probably because I’m an adult not a kid. The book is an appropriate length for a young reader.
Overall, this book was a fun adventure through a child’s dreamland that both kids and adults will enjoy.
For more book reviews, be sure to check out my blog: https://oddandbookish.wordpress.com/
July 22, 2022
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This is a story about a little girl called Merel. This is also a story about how Merel one day can’t sleep. This story also happens to be one of the most adorable middle grade stories that I have ever read. Silke Stein did an amazing job in portraying a little girl, and creating a magical world that we see through her eyes.
Merel is a little girl and since her sick baby brother was born, her parents stopped paying attention to her. In a magical world, far, far away, a dream collector plays on a violin and makes children fall asleep. But this one day, the dream collector gives up on Merel’s sleep and leaves his tiny silver violin in her bedroom.
Merel learns that her sleep has abandoned her, and she goes onto an incredible journey to recover the sleep, or to stay awake forever. With many characters helping her along the way, she will learn what the most important things in life are, and she will learn to see things in a different way.
While meeting a sleepy king, and a man on a train that goes nowhere, and moonfish that cry, and a little baby handed in her hands, we will see this magical world through an eight-year-old girl and how her perception changes chapter by chapter.
This is one of the books that will make you feel relaxed and deeply satisfied within after reading it. I felt lighter and was glowing all day.
Merel is such a cute character, and any parent would wish to have her as a daughter. She is the perfect example of how children react when a new baby sibling comes to the family, and they think that the parents don’t love them anymore, because they devote their attention to this little creature that cries all the time.
I loved her adventures – they were so adorable, and so many questions and discussions were raised. Even though the beginning was a bit slow for me, and it took me a while to catch the story, I am completely certain that this was because I am a grown up – and I am sure that kids will be easily able to dive into the story immediately.
Thank you to Silke Stein, for sending me a paperback copy of Sleep, Merel, Sleep, in exchange for an honest review.
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This is a story about a little girl called Merel. This is also a story about how Merel one day can’t sleep. This story also happens to be one of the most adorable middle grade stories that I have ever read. Silke Stein did an amazing job in portraying a little girl, and creating a magical world that we see through her eyes.
Merel is a little girl and since her sick baby brother was born, her parents stopped paying attention to her. In a magical world, far, far away, a dream collector plays on a violin and makes children fall asleep. But this one day, the dream collector gives up on Merel’s sleep and leaves his tiny silver violin in her bedroom.
Merel learns that her sleep has abandoned her, and she goes onto an incredible journey to recover the sleep, or to stay awake forever. With many characters helping her along the way, she will learn what the most important things in life are, and she will learn to see things in a different way.
While meeting a sleepy king, and a man on a train that goes nowhere, and moonfish that cry, and a little baby handed in her hands, we will see this magical world through an eight-year-old girl and how her perception changes chapter by chapter.
This is one of the books that will make you feel relaxed and deeply satisfied within after reading it. I felt lighter and was glowing all day.
Merel is such a cute character, and any parent would wish to have her as a daughter. She is the perfect example of how children react when a new baby sibling comes to the family, and they think that the parents don’t love them anymore, because they devote their attention to this little creature that cries all the time.
I loved her adventures – they were so adorable, and so many questions and discussions were raised. Even though the beginning was a bit slow for me, and it took me a while to catch the story, I am completely certain that this was because I am a grown up – and I am sure that kids will be easily able to dive into the story immediately.
Thank you to Silke Stein, for sending me a paperback copy of Sleep, Merel, Sleep, in exchange for an honest review.
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June 11, 2018
Merel used to be the center of attention at home, but everything changed when her baby brother was born and that isn't easy for Merel. Her brother is sick and needs all of her parents' time. Merel is lonely, angry and sad. When she finds a little violin it's the beginning of a long search. Her sleep has left her and she needs to get it back. To do this she has to go to the mysterious Lullaby Grove. Will she be able to find this place?
While she's on her journey Merel meets many different people. She isn't the only one who's lost her sleep. There's a dangerous man who keeps coming after her and she has to outrun him. Will Merel's mission succeed and when she's finally at the end of her journey will she have learned something from her adventure?
Sleep, Merel, Sleep is a wonderful magical story. It's difficult for Merel to adjust to her new situation. Before her brother was born her parents were always there for her and now they're spending most of their time with Merel's brother. She's frustrated and when she loses her sleep there's nobody there to help her figure things out. She has to go on a perilous journey on her own to retrieve something very important. I was immediately intrigued and was captivated by each character Merel meets. They're all equally fascinating.
Silke Stein uses beautiful words to tell Merel's story. I loved her world building skills and her descriptions of Merel's search are thorough and detailed. I also liked the idea behind Sleep, Merel, Sleep. Sleep is incredibly important and losing it would be a true nightmare. I loved how Silke Stein turns sleep into a reality with many interesting layers. I really enjoyed Sleep, Merel, Sleep it's a fabulous enchanting story.
While she's on her journey Merel meets many different people. She isn't the only one who's lost her sleep. There's a dangerous man who keeps coming after her and she has to outrun him. Will Merel's mission succeed and when she's finally at the end of her journey will she have learned something from her adventure?
Sleep, Merel, Sleep is a wonderful magical story. It's difficult for Merel to adjust to her new situation. Before her brother was born her parents were always there for her and now they're spending most of their time with Merel's brother. She's frustrated and when she loses her sleep there's nobody there to help her figure things out. She has to go on a perilous journey on her own to retrieve something very important. I was immediately intrigued and was captivated by each character Merel meets. They're all equally fascinating.
Silke Stein uses beautiful words to tell Merel's story. I loved her world building skills and her descriptions of Merel's search are thorough and detailed. I also liked the idea behind Sleep, Merel, Sleep. Sleep is incredibly important and losing it would be a true nightmare. I loved how Silke Stein turns sleep into a reality with many interesting layers. I really enjoyed Sleep, Merel, Sleep it's a fabulous enchanting story.
June 26, 2018
I would like to thank the author, Silke Stein, for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I don't read many middle-grade books, not because I don't like them, but simply because it's not my preferred genre. However, I highly enjoyed reading Sleep, Merel, Sleep. It's a magical story, beautifully told by the author. The world building is fascinating, the descriptions vivid, and I immediately fell in love with the premise.
The author incorporates important topics in a way children will understand, like having a sick sibling. Merel is a very brave girl, and the world she encounters is one filled with a vast imagination. The writing has an almost dream-like quality and fits the story perfectly.
Sleep, Merel, Sleep is a book I'd recommend to anyone who loves middle-grade books. It's an ideal book for young children, especially those trying to adjust to a new sibling. It contains a perilous adventure, just dark enough to be exciting with a few scary moments splattered throughout, and I think parents will enjoy reading this one with their children simply because of how beautifully written it is.
I don't read many middle-grade books, not because I don't like them, but simply because it's not my preferred genre. However, I highly enjoyed reading Sleep, Merel, Sleep. It's a magical story, beautifully told by the author. The world building is fascinating, the descriptions vivid, and I immediately fell in love with the premise.
The author incorporates important topics in a way children will understand, like having a sick sibling. Merel is a very brave girl, and the world she encounters is one filled with a vast imagination. The writing has an almost dream-like quality and fits the story perfectly.
Sleep, Merel, Sleep is a book I'd recommend to anyone who loves middle-grade books. It's an ideal book for young children, especially those trying to adjust to a new sibling. It contains a perilous adventure, just dark enough to be exciting with a few scary moments splattered throughout, and I think parents will enjoy reading this one with their children simply because of how beautifully written it is.
July 3, 2018
Closer to a 3.5 stars.
Overall I enjoyed this. Merel is a young girl that I wish I had a better idea of her age. She often acted like a 4-7 year old and then closer to a 9-12 year old which frustrated me not to know if she acted super immature or very mature for her age. It took a couple chapters to get into the feel of what was happening in the book but once I did I enjoyed it more. It has a fantastical element and a slightly dark edge of danger that had me questioning what was really going on. It is a book that makes you stop and think. Which I think is an important element it children's story telling. A lighter, simple story for fans of Labyrinth, Coraline, THe BFG or others who take midnight adventures!
*Special thanks to the author, Silke Stein for sending me a copy in exchange for a fair, honest review.
Overall I enjoyed this. Merel is a young girl that I wish I had a better idea of her age. She often acted like a 4-7 year old and then closer to a 9-12 year old which frustrated me not to know if she acted super immature or very mature for her age. It took a couple chapters to get into the feel of what was happening in the book but once I did I enjoyed it more. It has a fantastical element and a slightly dark edge of danger that had me questioning what was really going on. It is a book that makes you stop and think. Which I think is an important element it children's story telling. A lighter, simple story for fans of Labyrinth, Coraline, THe BFG or others who take midnight adventures!
*Special thanks to the author, Silke Stein for sending me a copy in exchange for a fair, honest review.
September 13, 2018
Sleep, Merel, Sleep
definitely didn't disappoint!
It's just the right length and mood – a delightful read, whether you will be reading it with a little one or on your own.
Let me tell you more!
5 Reasons To Read Sleep, Merel, Sleep
The Perfect Pacing
I loved how this story was told and how gradually details were introduced into the narrative. It's a sign of great writing when the author doesn't just show rather than tell, but weaves the little detail in bit by bit, so you learn things about the character's history as you go. We learn what happened to Merel and her family slowly, through flashbacks or comparisons, through things that remind Merel about her family life before and after her brother was born. It's uncovered so gradually, I couldn't help being enchanted by it – and I have to admit, I have not read many stories where this is done so well.
The Jealousy of a Neglected Older Sibling
Even though I have no siblings I grew up with, I can actually relate to this emotion – it was an early fear of mine that I would suddenly be the older child and my parents wouldn't love me anymore, because they'd have something smaller to love. I believe this is something a lot of siblings have experienced at some point in their lives, and Merel is no exception. The arrival of her baby brother was a tragedy to her – and not because he is sickly and that breaks your heart – but because with his arrival, Merel seems to have stopped existing to her family, as there is now a more immediate problem and they just can't deal with everything. Merel feels great pain at this, and again, I loved the way it was written – it's not explained, but rather you understand how it is bit by bit, through Merel referring to her baby brother as "pest" or "little creep", rather than a family member.
Merel's Slow Change
However, it wouldn't be a story if the neglected sibling jealousy didn't get resolved. Merel's journey is not just about regaining her ability to sleep – it's also about learning some things that she needs to learn. Like any good fairyland journey, this one comes with life lessons. For Merel, those are about her little brother – she is slowly brought into understanding that it's not right to feel the way she feels about him, even if she is right that she's suffered unjustly due to his arrival. Merel stops feeling like he's something separate and alien to her family and starts accepting that he is a human being and that she should have a relationship with him, should feel empathy for his suffering, as well as her parents' situation. It's beautiful seeing how the feelings Merel has change as she goes through her adventure. She understands that it's merely a thing of perspective, and although the problems her family is facing haven't changed, Merel comes back into a completely different situation than she left – and that's because her own feelings have changed.
The Descriptions of Food
What kind of fairyland adventure book would it be if we didn't have vivid descriptions of amazing food, right? Sleep, Merel, Sleep does not disappoint in this regard – it's got scrumptious descriptions of fantastic food Merel tries while she's traveling, be it real food or... a giant's hair, that's actually cotton candy.
Curly Rep!!!
Now you know I am always like this. I crave books that are about curly girls! They're never about curly girls! Alright, so Merel is eight, and it's more common to write about little girls than grown up girls with curly hair. But I'll take what I can get!! I was so happy to know that Merel was a child like me – with wispy curls. GIVE ME MORE!
Overall…
This is a WONDERFUL middle grade story. I absolutely loved it and gobbled it up in basically one sitting! There is nothing I could point to that I didn't enjoy – this was the perfect story. I can only hope Silke Stein writes more and I get to review it someday!
Other Books You Might Like
First of all, there's Sarah & Katy and the Book of Blank – it's book about two older girls, but still a book with a trip to a strange land, and I can recommend it. Read the review here. Then, of course, there's The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making, which I'm sure you've already heard about! And then there's Omnia, a book I greatly loved – what it has in common with Sleep, Merel, Sleep is that the main character also goes off into an odd world, and does so because of his sister. You can read the review here.
I thank Silke Stein for giving me a free copy of the book in exchange to my honest opinion. Receiving the book for free does not affect my opinion.
Read Post On My Blog | My Bookstagram | Bookish Twitter
5 Reasons To Read Sleep, Merel, Sleep
The Perfect Pacing
I loved how this story was told and how gradually details were introduced into the narrative. It's a sign of great writing when the author doesn't just show rather than tell, but weaves the little detail in bit by bit, so you learn things about the character's history as you go. We learn what happened to Merel and her family slowly, through flashbacks or comparisons, through things that remind Merel about her family life before and after her brother was born. It's uncovered so gradually, I couldn't help being enchanted by it – and I have to admit, I have not read many stories where this is done so well.
The Jealousy of a Neglected Older Sibling
Even though I have no siblings I grew up with, I can actually relate to this emotion – it was an early fear of mine that I would suddenly be the older child and my parents wouldn't love me anymore, because they'd have something smaller to love. I believe this is something a lot of siblings have experienced at some point in their lives, and Merel is no exception. The arrival of her baby brother was a tragedy to her – and not because he is sickly and that breaks your heart – but because with his arrival, Merel seems to have stopped existing to her family, as there is now a more immediate problem and they just can't deal with everything. Merel feels great pain at this, and again, I loved the way it was written – it's not explained, but rather you understand how it is bit by bit, through Merel referring to her baby brother as "pest" or "little creep", rather than a family member.
Merel's Slow Change
However, it wouldn't be a story if the neglected sibling jealousy didn't get resolved. Merel's journey is not just about regaining her ability to sleep – it's also about learning some things that she needs to learn. Like any good fairyland journey, this one comes with life lessons. For Merel, those are about her little brother – she is slowly brought into understanding that it's not right to feel the way she feels about him, even if she is right that she's suffered unjustly due to his arrival. Merel stops feeling like he's something separate and alien to her family and starts accepting that he is a human being and that she should have a relationship with him, should feel empathy for his suffering, as well as her parents' situation. It's beautiful seeing how the feelings Merel has change as she goes through her adventure. She understands that it's merely a thing of perspective, and although the problems her family is facing haven't changed, Merel comes back into a completely different situation than she left – and that's because her own feelings have changed.
The Descriptions of Food
What kind of fairyland adventure book would it be if we didn't have vivid descriptions of amazing food, right? Sleep, Merel, Sleep does not disappoint in this regard – it's got scrumptious descriptions of fantastic food Merel tries while she's traveling, be it real food or... a giant's hair, that's actually cotton candy.
Curly Rep!!!
Now you know I am always like this. I crave books that are about curly girls! They're never about curly girls! Alright, so Merel is eight, and it's more common to write about little girls than grown up girls with curly hair. But I'll take what I can get!! I was so happy to know that Merel was a child like me – with wispy curls. GIVE ME MORE!
Overall…
This is a WONDERFUL middle grade story. I absolutely loved it and gobbled it up in basically one sitting! There is nothing I could point to that I didn't enjoy – this was the perfect story. I can only hope Silke Stein writes more and I get to review it someday!
Other Books You Might Like
First of all, there's Sarah & Katy and the Book of Blank – it's book about two older girls, but still a book with a trip to a strange land, and I can recommend it. Read the review here. Then, of course, there's The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making, which I'm sure you've already heard about! And then there's Omnia, a book I greatly loved – what it has in common with Sleep, Merel, Sleep is that the main character also goes off into an odd world, and does so because of his sister. You can read the review here.
I thank Silke Stein for giving me a free copy of the book in exchange to my honest opinion. Receiving the book for free does not affect my opinion.
Read Post On My Blog | My Bookstagram | Bookish Twitter
September 24, 2018
Merel is miserable. Ever since her parents brought her sick baby brother home, she’s invisible to them. They’re so busy caring for him, they have no time for their little girl. Throwing a tantrum causes her sleep to leave. Now she can’t rest until she gets it back.
While picking up her things after her fit, Merel discovers a tiny violin. Thus begins her adventure to find her sleep and maybe find her place in the family again.
Merel was such a brave little girl. She set off on her own and faced many strange beings and some unusual situations in her quest. Every now and then I came across a nugget of knowledge, something that connected Merel’s problems on her quest with things she must deal with at home. The author cleverly wove them into the story and, after coming across one, I was on my own quest to discover more.
This was a story of adventure, hope, accepting and growing up. I found each chapter filled with fun and excitement.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes, indeed. I was charmed. Would I recommend it? With all my little girl at heart.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
While picking up her things after her fit, Merel discovers a tiny violin. Thus begins her adventure to find her sleep and maybe find her place in the family again.
Merel was such a brave little girl. She set off on her own and faced many strange beings and some unusual situations in her quest. Every now and then I came across a nugget of knowledge, something that connected Merel’s problems on her quest with things she must deal with at home. The author cleverly wove them into the story and, after coming across one, I was on my own quest to discover more.
This was a story of adventure, hope, accepting and growing up. I found each chapter filled with fun and excitement.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes, indeed. I was charmed. Would I recommend it? With all my little girl at heart.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
June 7, 2018
📣 Sleep, Merel, Sleep is now available on Amazon!
Merel is brave, and comes to terms with both her brother and her parent's being overwhelmed during her adventure. I do wish that there had been more of a lead-in to her journey; the book went from her meeting Morph in her room to her leaving her house in the middle of the night and interacting with adults three days later. I know that this is fantasy, and part of the allure of this particular book is the dreamlike narrative, but it does bother me a little bit since this is a middle-grade book. Something just doesn't sit well with me that I think may have been negated by this particular segue being navigated differently.
Overall I enjoyed this story; Stein has a vast imagination. I think that children who have felt the jealousy of no longer being the only child and the resentment toward their younger sibling will relate with the anger and frustration that Merel experiences. The various characters that she meets on her adventure were so imaginative, and I laughed at the pea bit! Admittedly I felt the ending was a bit abrupt, but it is likely written this way to be left open for interpretation. Was she dreaming all along? But what was with the conductor? So many questions!!!
ARC provided by the author, Silke Stein, in exchange for my honest review.
Sleep, Merel, Sleep, your father tends the sheep. Your mother shakes the dreamland tree and from it fall sweet dreams for thee, sleep, Merel, sleep.3.5 stars Silke Stein has woven a surreal tale with lyrical prose that brings the reader into a weird and dreamlike fantasy world. Merel is an angry eight year old girl who has been kind of neglected by her parents after the birth of her sick baby brother, and the book starts with Merel throwing a tantrum in her bed to try to get the attention of her parents. The only attention she received, unfortunately, was from Merel's Sleep, who dropped his violin off and left. And now she must embark on an adventure to return the violin to her Sleep or she will be awake forever. Along the way she meets a myriad of characters, from a sleeping king to a saleswoman for the Sandman's finest.
Merel is brave, and comes to terms with both her brother and her parent's being overwhelmed during her adventure. I do wish that there had been more of a lead-in to her journey; the book went from her meeting Morph in her room to her leaving her house in the middle of the night and interacting with adults three days later. I know that this is fantasy, and part of the allure of this particular book is the dreamlike narrative, but it does bother me a little bit since this is a middle-grade book. Something just doesn't sit well with me that I think may have been negated by this particular segue being navigated differently.
Overall I enjoyed this story; Stein has a vast imagination. I think that children who have felt the jealousy of no longer being the only child and the resentment toward their younger sibling will relate with the anger and frustration that Merel experiences. The various characters that she meets on her adventure were so imaginative, and I laughed at the pea bit! Admittedly I felt the ending was a bit abrupt, but it is likely written this way to be left open for interpretation. Was she dreaming all along? But what was with the conductor? So many questions!!!
ARC provided by the author, Silke Stein, in exchange for my honest review.
June 18, 2018
I really did like this book it is a really interesting children's book I liked the concept very much it made for a very interesting read. I liked the main character Merel and the characters around her and how interesting her journey was and how she had to find her sleep it was more of a life lesson really. I liked the story it flowed well and kept my attention. So overall I enjoyed this book very much.
-A Review in exchange for the free copy I got-
-A Review in exchange for the free copy I got-
July 20, 2018
A story about a new siblings arrival and abandoned sleep is compelling. But in truth, this read had me hooked from the start where the bedroom contents are described.
Yes! I admit it. This storyline is both magical and whimsical and it was rabbit ear slippers that drew me into this read.
Melding a quest for Lullaby Grove with meetings, discoveries, musical instruments, in a land with rainbow sprinkles where words like zesty flutter about and you will recognize this book blesses all the senses. And while sleep is deprived because of Merel's tantrums, this book acknowledges growth and teaches the importance of acceptance.
I thoroughly love this storybook and believe adults, as well as children, will be reading this one for years to come.
I received a copy of this book through the generosity of the author for an honest review.
Yes! I admit it. This storyline is both magical and whimsical and it was rabbit ear slippers that drew me into this read.
Melding a quest for Lullaby Grove with meetings, discoveries, musical instruments, in a land with rainbow sprinkles where words like zesty flutter about and you will recognize this book blesses all the senses. And while sleep is deprived because of Merel's tantrums, this book acknowledges growth and teaches the importance of acceptance.
I thoroughly love this storybook and believe adults, as well as children, will be reading this one for years to come.
I received a copy of this book through the generosity of the author for an honest review.
May 7, 2018
I can't even begin to describe how wonderful this book is. The world in it is so beautiful and strange at the same time.
The characters are fantastic, each and everyone of them are perfectly shaped and thought out. It feels like a dream you don't want to wake up from, most of the time that is.
The main character is a very believable young girl who struggles with the feelings of being left to her own devices by her parents because they have so much worries. Merel is also lovely and brave.
I recommend it to anyone who loves to dream about other worlds.
The characters are fantastic, each and everyone of them are perfectly shaped and thought out. It feels like a dream you don't want to wake up from, most of the time that is.
The main character is a very believable young girl who struggles with the feelings of being left to her own devices by her parents because they have so much worries. Merel is also lovely and brave.
I recommend it to anyone who loves to dream about other worlds.
June 5, 2018
Disclaimer: I received this book for free through KidLitExchange in return for a review. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Rating: 4/5
Genre: MG Fantasy
Recommended Age: 8+ (dark and a little scary for some younger readers)
Pages: 108
Author Website
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Who wants to be awake forever?
Life has changed for eight-year-old Merel. Since the birth of her sick baby brother, her parents seem to have forgotten she exists. But when she finds a tiny silver violin in her bedroom rug, things take a turn for the worse.
Merel learns that her sleep has abandoned her and that she must embark on a perilous journey to recover it or stay awake forever. Together with her devoted toy sheep Roger, tired Merel sets out in search of Lullaby Grove. Before long, she finds herself haunted by a scary stranger.
Follow Merel into a surreal world. Meet a sleepy king with an obsession for feathers and a transparent old man on a night train going nowhere. Discover why the moonfish cry, why you should never walk across the Great Yawns ― and if poor Merel can escape her pursuer, win back her sleep, and realize what matters most in her life.
I secretly love books and video games that involve dreaming and exploring dreams and this book was amazing because of that. This book really reminded me of Among the Sleep. It’s dark, but still child friendly, and it has a perilous adventure involving a young child through a dream land of sorts. I really loved how well developed the characters were and how well developed the world building was. The book was absolutely inspirational and the story was so well written and developed. I definitely recommend this for any young or old reader who’s interested in this obscure genre of dream books like I am.
The only con I really have is that the ending was very abrupt and left the reader wondering and wanting more. It also left a lot of questions unanswered, but maybe there will another book?
Verdict: An absolutely beautiful and amazing book for middle graders and above.
Rating: 4/5
Genre: MG Fantasy
Recommended Age: 8+ (dark and a little scary for some younger readers)
Pages: 108
Author Website
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Who wants to be awake forever?
Life has changed for eight-year-old Merel. Since the birth of her sick baby brother, her parents seem to have forgotten she exists. But when she finds a tiny silver violin in her bedroom rug, things take a turn for the worse.
Merel learns that her sleep has abandoned her and that she must embark on a perilous journey to recover it or stay awake forever. Together with her devoted toy sheep Roger, tired Merel sets out in search of Lullaby Grove. Before long, she finds herself haunted by a scary stranger.
Follow Merel into a surreal world. Meet a sleepy king with an obsession for feathers and a transparent old man on a night train going nowhere. Discover why the moonfish cry, why you should never walk across the Great Yawns ― and if poor Merel can escape her pursuer, win back her sleep, and realize what matters most in her life.
I secretly love books and video games that involve dreaming and exploring dreams and this book was amazing because of that. This book really reminded me of Among the Sleep. It’s dark, but still child friendly, and it has a perilous adventure involving a young child through a dream land of sorts. I really loved how well developed the characters were and how well developed the world building was. The book was absolutely inspirational and the story was so well written and developed. I definitely recommend this for any young or old reader who’s interested in this obscure genre of dream books like I am.
The only con I really have is that the ending was very abrupt and left the reader wondering and wanting more. It also left a lot of questions unanswered, but maybe there will another book?
Verdict: An absolutely beautiful and amazing book for middle graders and above.
October 29, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Merel is feeling sorry for herself and very, very angry. Accustomed to having her parent’s attention, since her poorly baby brother has come onto the scene she has felt pushed out and ignored. Merel has such a temper on her as a result that even her Sleep has had enough of her behaviour and decides to head back to Lullaby Grove and leave her to it. Sleep, Merel, Sleep charts Merel’s adventure into a magical world to find her Sleep and bring him back.
Along the way she encounters people and problems that the astute reader will notice have their parallels in her everyday life, and by solving the puzzles facing her on her fantastical quest, she gains insight into her own behaviour and priorities which help her come to terms with her real-life situation.
There are some obvious comparisons in fiction and media, with Alice in Wonderland, Pan’s Labyrinth, Labyrinth, The Faraway Tree, The Chronicles of Narnia and My Neighbour Totoro to name but a few. The similarities are there as a young protagonist fights and searches through a fantasy landscape to solve her factual problems. However, Merel also has her own unique voice, and the characters and setting are distinct and vibrant, bringing something fresh and interesting to this familiar scenario.
Obviously I would highly recommend this for young readers who are dealing with jealousy of a new sibling (especially a high-needs sibling), but there is so much to enjoy here that really I can recommend it for anyone, children and adults alike! I will be following this author with great interest and in the meantime I cannot wait to introduce Minishine to Merel!
Merel heard a humming sound coming from the window – a winged creature.
“What’s this dragonfly doing in here?” she whispered and armed herself with one of the travel magazines from the stack on the coffee table. She dashed to the window, waving the rolled-up paper in the direction of the intruder.
The insect uttered a surprised bleep.
“You can see me?” it croaked and darted to the ceiling.
Merel felt as if somebody had removed the bones from her legs. She flopped into the overstuffed chair behind her, without losing sight of the creature, which slowly came down and landed on the windowsill, only an arm’s length away from her.
Merel gazed at it. It was a little man, having the size and shape of a peanut shell, stuffed into overalls that shimmered like the scales of a rainbow trout.
He pulled a silvery backpack from his shoulders, dropped it on the ledge and sat down on it.
Scratching his forehead, he sighed.
“You can see me,” he said in his squeaky voice. “What a mess.”
– Silke Stein, Sleep, Merel, Sleep
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
Merel is feeling sorry for herself and very, very angry. Accustomed to having her parent’s attention, since her poorly baby brother has come onto the scene she has felt pushed out and ignored. Merel has such a temper on her as a result that even her Sleep has had enough of her behaviour and decides to head back to Lullaby Grove and leave her to it. Sleep, Merel, Sleep charts Merel’s adventure into a magical world to find her Sleep and bring him back.
Along the way she encounters people and problems that the astute reader will notice have their parallels in her everyday life, and by solving the puzzles facing her on her fantastical quest, she gains insight into her own behaviour and priorities which help her come to terms with her real-life situation.
There are some obvious comparisons in fiction and media, with Alice in Wonderland, Pan’s Labyrinth, Labyrinth, The Faraway Tree, The Chronicles of Narnia and My Neighbour Totoro to name but a few. The similarities are there as a young protagonist fights and searches through a fantasy landscape to solve her factual problems. However, Merel also has her own unique voice, and the characters and setting are distinct and vibrant, bringing something fresh and interesting to this familiar scenario.
Obviously I would highly recommend this for young readers who are dealing with jealousy of a new sibling (especially a high-needs sibling), but there is so much to enjoy here that really I can recommend it for anyone, children and adults alike! I will be following this author with great interest and in the meantime I cannot wait to introduce Minishine to Merel!
Merel heard a humming sound coming from the window – a winged creature.
“What’s this dragonfly doing in here?” she whispered and armed herself with one of the travel magazines from the stack on the coffee table. She dashed to the window, waving the rolled-up paper in the direction of the intruder.
The insect uttered a surprised bleep.
“You can see me?” it croaked and darted to the ceiling.
Merel felt as if somebody had removed the bones from her legs. She flopped into the overstuffed chair behind her, without losing sight of the creature, which slowly came down and landed on the windowsill, only an arm’s length away from her.
Merel gazed at it. It was a little man, having the size and shape of a peanut shell, stuffed into overalls that shimmered like the scales of a rainbow trout.
He pulled a silvery backpack from his shoulders, dropped it on the ledge and sat down on it.
Scratching his forehead, he sighed.
“You can see me,” he said in his squeaky voice. “What a mess.”
– Silke Stein, Sleep, Merel, Sleep
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
June 11, 2018
Sleep, Merl, Sleep is a story that sounds like elegant poetry retold by a child. The descriptions are as beautiful as the book's cover, however, the story toes a line between being for children and being just out of their understanding. Sleep, Merl, Sleep is a longer bedtime story. The chapters are a decent size so this book would make a good way to read a continued book to your children each night before bed if your children like the longer-what-happens-next narrative. The end of each chapter will leave them on the edge of their pajamas, ready for more. Parents will enjoy reading the story because of its structure and beautiful writing.
The scenes as our character, Merl, moves from obstacle-to-obstacle is dream and child-like. There is missing information that the author assumes your imagination will fill in the blanks. The information Merl has is being filtered through her innocent mind, such as what happened to grandpa. Throw in a few mystical characters and Merl’s emotional roller coaster, and you have a full story.
However, the moral of the story might have to be explained, even for older children. Sleep, Merl, Sleep is Alice In Wonderland-est; a child tumbling into an unfamiliar world, trying to get to a place, facing a quirky villain in an attempt to get back home despite hating what home has to offer.
Some of the word choices wouldn’t be familiar to a child (such as “aria” as used to describe the voice and song of the villain in later chapters; I had to look that up myself). Also, the descriptions, while beautiful, might not register with young children; will a child understand the imagery of glossy tree bark and pebbles and how they correlate in descriptions?
Despite some of the descriptions used, Sleep, Merl, Sleep, is undoubtedly a beautiful story worth sharing. Parents and young readers will enjoy this story.
The scenes as our character, Merl, moves from obstacle-to-obstacle is dream and child-like. There is missing information that the author assumes your imagination will fill in the blanks. The information Merl has is being filtered through her innocent mind, such as what happened to grandpa. Throw in a few mystical characters and Merl’s emotional roller coaster, and you have a full story.
However, the moral of the story might have to be explained, even for older children. Sleep, Merl, Sleep is Alice In Wonderland-est; a child tumbling into an unfamiliar world, trying to get to a place, facing a quirky villain in an attempt to get back home despite hating what home has to offer.
Some of the word choices wouldn’t be familiar to a child (such as “aria” as used to describe the voice and song of the villain in later chapters; I had to look that up myself). Also, the descriptions, while beautiful, might not register with young children; will a child understand the imagery of glossy tree bark and pebbles and how they correlate in descriptions?
Despite some of the descriptions used, Sleep, Merl, Sleep, is undoubtedly a beautiful story worth sharing. Parents and young readers will enjoy this story.
September 18, 2018
Sleep, Merel, Sleep, by Silke Stein, is a delightful and adventurous middle grade story about an 8 year old girl, named Merel, who has lost her Sleep after her sickly baby brother is born. Merel’s sleep abandons her because of her angry and abusive behavior due to losing her parents’ attention. Merel then has to go on a perilous journey in search of her Sleep if she ever wants to sleep again! Along the way, an extremely tired Merel encounters several creatures, not all friendly, and some downright scary, and travels through faraway fantastical lands. Luckily, Merel meets a few kind souls who help her. As Merel searches for her Sleep, she learns empathy and starts helping others. She realizes how selfish she has been and begins to understand how difficult things have been for her parents and her baby brother.
I love how the author weaves an enchanting tale filled with detailed imagery and feelings, and how she imparts life lessons throughout the story. Lots of children will relate to Merel’s feelings of jealousy and resentment, as well as frustration and fear. At the beginning of the story, Merel is not very likeable, but as she overcomes hardships and learns acceptance, the reader roots for her and hopes that she will find her Sleep and be able to return home!
On a more personal note, I am crazy and super strict about sleep for my son. Anyone who knows me will tell you that! He was a horrible sleeper as a baby so I became obsessed with making sure he had a sleep schedule that was followed. This drove people crazy, especially when we were on vacation! So, I really appreciate a book that shows how important sleep is! Well done, Silke Stein!
I love how the author weaves an enchanting tale filled with detailed imagery and feelings, and how she imparts life lessons throughout the story. Lots of children will relate to Merel’s feelings of jealousy and resentment, as well as frustration and fear. At the beginning of the story, Merel is not very likeable, but as she overcomes hardships and learns acceptance, the reader roots for her and hopes that she will find her Sleep and be able to return home!
On a more personal note, I am crazy and super strict about sleep for my son. Anyone who knows me will tell you that! He was a horrible sleeper as a baby so I became obsessed with making sure he had a sleep schedule that was followed. This drove people crazy, especially when we were on vacation! So, I really appreciate a book that shows how important sleep is! Well done, Silke Stein!
June 19, 2018
3.5 stars. This book was very abstract and weird, but quite interesting. It would be a great pick for middle-grade children who are about to become big brothers or sisters. Merel's brother was just born, and Merel isn't too pleased with him. Because he is sick, Merel's parents never have time for her. One night, Merel's sleep abandons her and she must go on a whimsical journey to find her "Sleep" and return his violin to him so that she can go to bed. Along the way, she meets friends and enemies and learns about what truly matters in her life.
I do wish that some things were explained a little more and that the transitions weren't so odd and quick. It was a little like Alice in Wonderland, where the story is one nonsensical adventure after another, but it was still fun. Also, I wished that the ending wasn't so abrupt, and didn't leave so many loose ends untied. The last chapter or so confused me at first, because Merel went from one situation to another without explanation.
I liked how Silke Stein incorporated the issues of death of a loved one and the sickness of a premature sibling. It explains it in a way that children could understand, but adults can relate to.
The various characters were imaginative and interesting, and were one of the best parts of this book. Merel is relatable and brave. Though a bit unlikable at first (I mean, she threw enough tantrums that even her sleep abandoned her), she grew into a strong and smart little girl.
ARC provided by the author, Silke Stein, in exchange for my honest review.
I do wish that some things were explained a little more and that the transitions weren't so odd and quick. It was a little like Alice in Wonderland, where the story is one nonsensical adventure after another, but it was still fun. Also, I wished that the ending wasn't so abrupt, and didn't leave so many loose ends untied. The last chapter or so confused me at first, because Merel went from one situation to another without explanation.
I liked how Silke Stein incorporated the issues of death of a loved one and the sickness of a premature sibling. It explains it in a way that children could understand, but adults can relate to.
The various characters were imaginative and interesting, and were one of the best parts of this book. Merel is relatable and brave. Though a bit unlikable at first (I mean, she threw enough tantrums that even her sleep abandoned her), she grew into a strong and smart little girl.
ARC provided by the author, Silke Stein, in exchange for my honest review.
June 6, 2022
I chose to read this book after receiving a free copy. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
Merel is having a terrible time sleeping since her sick baby brother came home. She’s also feeling neglected because her parents are having to spend all of their time with him. Finally, her personal sleep gives up and quits, which means she’ll never be able to sleep again.
Merel ends up in another world. The descriptions are weird but they’re ones that middle grade readers will most likely enjoy. For example, there’s purple grass and a giant named Lollipo whose hair is cotton candy, and his freckles are different colors.
At the end of Merel’s journey, she has learned that maybe her baby brother isn’t so bad. The story did end quite abruptly, and a little more at the end would be helpful. Overall, though, I definitely recommend Sleep, Merel, Sleep for middle grade readers.
Merel is having a terrible time sleeping since her sick baby brother came home. She’s also feeling neglected because her parents are having to spend all of their time with him. Finally, her personal sleep gives up and quits, which means she’ll never be able to sleep again.
Merel ends up in another world. The descriptions are weird but they’re ones that middle grade readers will most likely enjoy. For example, there’s purple grass and a giant named Lollipo whose hair is cotton candy, and his freckles are different colors.
At the end of Merel’s journey, she has learned that maybe her baby brother isn’t so bad. The story did end quite abruptly, and a little more at the end would be helpful. Overall, though, I definitely recommend Sleep, Merel, Sleep for middle grade readers.
July 16, 2018
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Full review available here: https://rhianwriting.wordpress.com/20...
August 30, 2018
A beautifully written MG book - full review up soon!
June 7, 2018
I have gotten away from reading middle-grade books. No real reason. I stopped requesting them on NetGalley. I rarely get an author request through my contact form/email. So, when the author contacted me to review Sleep, Merel, Sleep I almost declined. Then I read the blurb and my attention was caught. From what I read the blurb, I needed to read the book. I am glad that I decided to accept the request because Sleep, Merel, Sleep was a one of a kind middle grade book.
Merel’s Sleep went AWOL. He was tired of listening to her tantrums. He was tired of trying to get her to sleep. He was tired of watching her struggle to go to sleep. So he left. Merel learns that he left when she finds his violin on her rug. That finds sends her on a journey to find her Sleep in a place called Lullaby Grove. But, Merel is also stalked by a stranger. This stranger doesn’t want her to find her Sleep or Lullaby Grove. He has other reasons for keeping her from finding them and they aren’t great.
I will be the first one to admit that Merel was unlikable during the first few chapters of the book. She came across as a brat who went out of her way to make everyone around her miserable. I was prepared to not like her. But then, something happened. There was more to Merel’s story than what the author first shared. There was a significant amount of trauma that happened to Merel within a couple of months. My dislike of her started to go away while journeying to Lullaby Grove. By the time she was on the Sandman’s Beach, my dislike of her faded. I pitied her but I also realized that she was a strong child.
I liked how the author addressed the issues of death and having a sick sibling. Merel’s reactions to the turmoil going on in her life were what I would expect an 8-year-old to do. I also liked how the author chose to have Merel make peace with everything that happened to her. Even the scary things that happened to her was a way of making her accept and move on.
I did find parts of the book to be scary. Mainly, the scenes with the scary stranger. What he did to Merel at the end of the book shocked me. I wasn’t expecting it. It did make sense
The end of the book confused me at first. I had to reread the last chapter to understand. It confused me because Merel went from one situation to another without the reader knowing. Saying that I did like it because the author left if Merel completed her journey until the end.
What I liked about Sleep, Merel, Sleep:
A) Original storyline
B) Merel’s journey
C) Seeing Merel’s journey to accepting everything that happened to her.
What I disliked about Sleep, Merel, Sleep:
A) The stranger. I thought he was too scary at certain points in the book
B) The death of Merel’s grandfather and the premie birth of her brother back to back.
C) The end of the book. I got confused and had to reread the first few chapters.
I would give Sleep, Merel, Sleep a rating of Child. There are no sexual situations. There is very mild violence. There is no language. There are several scenes that could scare a younger child. Also, there are scenes describing a car accident and a premie in the hospital that could scare a child. While this book could be read by children under the age of 10, I would supervise them reading it.
There are trigger warnings in Sleep, Merel, Sleep. They are the death of a grandparent and a sick sibling. If you or your child is triggered by those then I suggest not reading the book.
I would recommend Sleep, Merel, Sleep to family and friends. I would make sure that they knew about the triggers. This is a book that I would reread.
I would like to thank Silke Stein for allowing me to read and review Sleep, Merel, Sleep.
All opinions stated in this review of Sleep, Merel, Sleep are mine.
**I chose to leave this review after reading an advance reader copy**
Merel’s Sleep went AWOL. He was tired of listening to her tantrums. He was tired of trying to get her to sleep. He was tired of watching her struggle to go to sleep. So he left. Merel learns that he left when she finds his violin on her rug. That finds sends her on a journey to find her Sleep in a place called Lullaby Grove. But, Merel is also stalked by a stranger. This stranger doesn’t want her to find her Sleep or Lullaby Grove. He has other reasons for keeping her from finding them and they aren’t great.
I will be the first one to admit that Merel was unlikable during the first few chapters of the book. She came across as a brat who went out of her way to make everyone around her miserable. I was prepared to not like her. But then, something happened. There was more to Merel’s story than what the author first shared. There was a significant amount of trauma that happened to Merel within a couple of months. My dislike of her started to go away while journeying to Lullaby Grove. By the time she was on the Sandman’s Beach, my dislike of her faded. I pitied her but I also realized that she was a strong child.
I liked how the author addressed the issues of death and having a sick sibling. Merel’s reactions to the turmoil going on in her life were what I would expect an 8-year-old to do. I also liked how the author chose to have Merel make peace with everything that happened to her. Even the scary things that happened to her was a way of making her accept and move on.
I did find parts of the book to be scary. Mainly, the scenes with the scary stranger. What he did to Merel at the end of the book shocked me. I wasn’t expecting it. It did make sense
The end of the book confused me at first. I had to reread the last chapter to understand. It confused me because Merel went from one situation to another without the reader knowing. Saying that I did like it because the author left if Merel completed her journey until the end.
What I liked about Sleep, Merel, Sleep:
A) Original storyline
B) Merel’s journey
C) Seeing Merel’s journey to accepting everything that happened to her.
What I disliked about Sleep, Merel, Sleep:
A) The stranger. I thought he was too scary at certain points in the book
B) The death of Merel’s grandfather and the premie birth of her brother back to back.
C) The end of the book. I got confused and had to reread the first few chapters.
I would give Sleep, Merel, Sleep a rating of Child. There are no sexual situations. There is very mild violence. There is no language. There are several scenes that could scare a younger child. Also, there are scenes describing a car accident and a premie in the hospital that could scare a child. While this book could be read by children under the age of 10, I would supervise them reading it.
There are trigger warnings in Sleep, Merel, Sleep. They are the death of a grandparent and a sick sibling. If you or your child is triggered by those then I suggest not reading the book.
I would recommend Sleep, Merel, Sleep to family and friends. I would make sure that they knew about the triggers. This is a book that I would reread.
I would like to thank Silke Stein for allowing me to read and review Sleep, Merel, Sleep.
All opinions stated in this review of Sleep, Merel, Sleep are mine.
**I chose to leave this review after reading an advance reader copy**
July 30, 2018
I want to say thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This isn't my typical genre of choice but did enjoy it. I felt like it jumped around too much with completely explain one scene or ending a scene. I had to really pay attention to catch on to when those jumps happened and to know what was going on.
I think the author did a great job with world building and explaining all that Merel encountered.
Overall I thought this was an ok read it just wasn't for me. However I think this would be perfect for those who it is actually geared toward but it could use a little polishing.
August 1, 2019
Very unusual. Hard to follow the thread of the story. Took forever to read.
August 19, 2018
I read Sleep Merel Sleep over the weekend. The author Silke Stein was very kind and sent me this book for review.
It is aimed at children, I'd say around the age of 10 or so.
The book follows Merel, an 8 and a half year old, struggling to come to terms with the arrival or her poorly baby brother. His illness means he is taking up a lot of her parents time and Merel is feeling left out and jealous. When sleep up and leaves, Merel finds herself on an adventure to find lullaby grove... the only place where she might find sleep again.
Merels adventure is full of little lessons about caring for others and treasuring those closest to you in a fun way that any child can understand while at the same time being absolute nonsense and a whole lot of silliness😆 I soon stopped trying to make sense of anything and just went along for the ride!
I would definitely recommend this book for children of primary school age and I'll be saving this for when my niece and nephew are old enough to read because I think they will love the crazy characters in this story 😁
It is aimed at children, I'd say around the age of 10 or so.
The book follows Merel, an 8 and a half year old, struggling to come to terms with the arrival or her poorly baby brother. His illness means he is taking up a lot of her parents time and Merel is feeling left out and jealous. When sleep up and leaves, Merel finds herself on an adventure to find lullaby grove... the only place where she might find sleep again.
Merels adventure is full of little lessons about caring for others and treasuring those closest to you in a fun way that any child can understand while at the same time being absolute nonsense and a whole lot of silliness😆 I soon stopped trying to make sense of anything and just went along for the ride!
I would definitely recommend this book for children of primary school age and I'll be saving this for when my niece and nephew are old enough to read because I think they will love the crazy characters in this story 😁
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