We're Moving Where?!

by Glen Blackwell

When Harry's mum and dad tell him that they will be moving to a cabin in the Canadian wilderness, his first thought is about leaving his friends behind. He then finds out that there will be NO INTERNET!!! Join Harry on the adventure of a lifetime and find out how he adapts when everything he is used to changes overnight...

122 pages, Paperback

Published December 3, 2020

About the author

I have worked in finance for many years. I wrote and published my first children's book after getting the inspiration reading to my own children. I love being able to help with the escapism that can be found through books.

Reviews

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story reminds us that change can be good and unplugging from the internet can be a very good thing.

Harry is told that their family is moving from England to Canada for Dad's job and that they will be living in the woods with no internet or television, at least initially. I'm sure any child today would shudder at the thought of having to unplug, but this is not a bad thing. While they are adjusting to their new home, they have many adventures and Harry learns to look beyond a screen and what is really out there in nature and enjoying time with his parents.

I found the story interesting and was amazed at the knowledge the father has on how to build a house/cabin. I wouldn't even know where to start because they were cutting down trees, setting up solar panels, and many other things. This would be a great story to read to your children which is how this author came to write the story. There could be many discussions about what Harry experienced and what it might be like to live "off the grid" and observing nature.

We give this story 4 paws up.

[Ninbooklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 🌟
Synopsis : When Harry's mum and dad tell him that they will be moving to a cabin in the Canadian wilderness, his first thought is about leaving his friends behind. He then finds out that there will be NO INTERNET!!!Join Harry on the adventure of a lifetime and find out how he adapts when everything he is used to changes overnight...

This teaches us that change can be a good thing and due to our technology we can always stay in touch. I really liked Harry and his parents. The writing is very easy to read and is great for young readers. This is also a great book to read to your children before bed. I love the way Harry adapted to the change and how he loves to learn new things. The other thing I love it the wild life that is included here. I'm a animal management student and I adore it when books talk about wild life. This also teaches children about Canadian wild life. Would definitely recommend this book!

[Joshua Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glen Blackwell helps us discover the charm of a new place in his youth novel We’re Moving Where!? Young Harry’s world comes crashing down around him when he discovers that he’s moving to the Canadian wilderness, and worse yet, away from the internet. Now Harry must discover life away from screens. Blackwell delivers a really heartfelt story of growing as a family, discovering nature, and coping with the culture shock of a new place! I really enjoyed the message and writing in this one, and think it’s a great story we all can connect with. If you love youth lit with a strong moral message, come get off the grid with this one!

[Jason · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

“We’re Moving Where?!” by Glen Blackwell is a young/middle-grade novel published by Zoetrope Books. This slice-of-life family story revolves around Harry, a boy whose world is upended when his dad gets a new job and he and his parents move from England to the Canadian woods – WITH NO INTERNET! Reader’s join with the family as they navigate saying goodbye to loved ones, travel across continents and literally set up camp as they settle into their new surroundings.

What I particularly enjoyed about this book was the accurate representation of Harry. His childlike wonder, all the questions, his energy – it’s all spot on and made me think of my own son. Harry is a boy who experiences sadness, excitement and fear, all emotions children of his age can relate to. What’s key here is that Harry has the support of his two parents, they’re with him every step of the way, helping him navigate his emotions during a time of transition.

I couldn’t help but wonder how much this book is based off actual events as the it reads almost like a journal of what’s taking place with the family. Time and attention are given to relatively small plot elements (a trip to the post office, going on a hike) that make them seem real. Young readers (my son in particular) can relate to these smaller moments and are able to see themselves in them. As a parent it also shows me that even the small moments matter. So much of life is made up of the “need to’s” of life; school runs, grocery shopping; but its often in these small moments that lifelong memories are made.

“We’re Moving Where?!” also shows how a break from technology can be a good thing. Harry and his parents, while bummed that they go off the grid for a few days, are examples of how a little adventure can go a long way. While this family is forced into the great outdoors due to a job change, it’s a good reminder that getting outside and unplugged can greatly benefits families. Blackwell’s story does a nice job of showing young readers how technology can be useful (and for wildlife living, necessary) and utilizing it for staying in touch with friends and loved ones should be a priority. This book definitely inspired me to schedule my family’s next outdoor adventure as soon as possible!

This is a great, quick-read novel that families can enjoy together – 🧢 🧢 🧢 🧢 /5

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story starts off in England, with Harry getting the news that he and his parents are moving to Canada. What happens from the beginning to the end of the story is about the love a family has for each other and the environment. This adventure is filled with life teaching moments; from moving away from your friends, to how to send an email or a real letter, to how to act around wildlife and protecting the natural habitat around you. Harry has a lot to learn about life and what his father does for a living and how it all will affect his future.
The adventure of the Jones’ moving from a settled home to the challenge of building of a home in a wilderness is a concept that many new families can relate to. The important lesson of how words often hold different meaning for the same concept, even if we all speak the same language. It shows how books can help us to learn about things more. How schooling and education can take place in many different ways as a student continues to learn.

Good book for students ages 8-11.

[Justine Laismith · Rating 3 out of 5]

This young middle-grade book is about a boy's adventures when his family moves to Canada.

Harry's father has a new job that takes him to the wilderness in Canada. He has to say goodbye to his friends. He is nervous about leaving the life he is so familiar with: school, internet, telephone and even a proper roof over his head.

It was very interesting reading about the family settling into their new lives in the Canadian wilderness. We get a flavour of the wildlife there. I found it incredible that they had to cut their own trees to build their log cabin, living in a tent in the meantime. The author describes how they can get the mod-cons we are used to, like electricity, hot water and the internet. In the current pandemic lifestyle, online learning for Harry doesn't seem that exotic. On the other hand, the author's descriptions of the Canadian outdoors is a good escape away from the four walls we are stuck in.

An illuminating read.

[Annu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book is about a family who moves to a different place, lifestyle and habitat. This book is about change and how although it can be scary but nice as well.
I read it with my kids actually and they enjoyed listening to Harry and his family's adventure. We were equally anxious and excited about the move, like Harry, and loved the adventure they embarked on.
There were various elements that kept us interested in this book. I liked how the writer subtly crept in little pieces of info about the natural habitat of animals. The encounters they had with the animals delighted my kids. I specially liked the part where they constructed the cabin, it was very enthralling, reading about it.
I wish the author would write another book sort of a squel to this one, so we can find out more about their adventures as I am sure living in a forest to study animals and their habitat would bring on many more.
This is a very good book to read with your kids.

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

We’re Moving Where?! follows Harry and his family who move to the Canadian wilderness where there is very little in the way of familiarity (including the internet!). Harry is a little bummed about leaving his friends and family behind, but ultimately realizes that maybe change isn’t such a bad thing.

First off, I want to thank Glen Blackwell for gifting this eBook in return for an honest review. This story is perfect to read to your children as a bedtime story, or even as in independent read for older children. All of the characters are pleasantly warm which makes for a delightful reading experience pretty much regardless of age. Definitely check this out if you need a lighthearted story to read to your children!

[the_empty_bookself · Rating 4 out of 5]

Glen approached me to review his book and I am so pleased he did! My son is 8 years old and this has kept us thoroughly entertained before bed for the last fortnight! When covid is over he would like to book a camping trip to Canada and is even willing to leave his iPod at home!!

The story follows a family of three in their move to literally the middle of nowhere and their adaption to a life with nature and no internet! A scary thought for anyone of us nowadays! A heartwarming story which definitely taught my son that a life without technology can be very exciting! Not that he made it through screen free Friday today....

[Evelyn B · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet, early middle grade book about Harry's move from England to the fresh wilderness of Canada. Harry and his parents explore nature, go camping, and build a cabin from scratch in the forests of Canada. A great bedtime story to practice reading, especially for kids who may be moving soon, or in the process of moving. It can be difficult to leave your friends, school life, and family behind when moving... I did that with my family when I was in school, just like Harry. Yet, the adventure is always worth it and the new perspective of the world is a great lesson. "We're Moving Where?!" teaches readers that a strong family unit, optimism, creativity, and a hard days work reap wonderful benefits and can lead to the best of adventures.

[Amanda- LateNightReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though this is a kid's book, I was intrigued by the premise. When I was Harry's age, if you had told me that I was moving to the Canadian woods with my parents and I had to build my own cabin? Oh no.... I would have freaked! But Harry handled it really well. And it actually ended up being really good for him and his family. I really enjoyed reading this little book. It held my attention and it's definitely something that I am going to pass on to my niece.
And Thank you Glen for the ARC!! I will review for you anytime!!! <3

[The Book Suite · Rating 4 out of 5]

Obviously, since this is a children’s book, this one isn’t a difficult read. But, based on what I can remember from when I did fit the target age demographic for this book, this would’ve been right at my level! Honestly, I think writing children’s books is harder than writing for adults or teenagers. There’s a whole other layer of making sure what you’re writing is readable for young children. I can’t even imagine, and I’m impressed by Blackwell’s ability to do this so well.

That being said, despite the shorter length and the genre, the characterization in We’re Moving Where?! didn’t disappoint. Just like Harry, I switched schools when I was about the same age. So, I can attest to the fact that the way Blackwell wrote Harry’s reaction is entirely accurate. The combination of excitement and sadness? Spot on.

Other than that, I also loved the general story and the themes of the book. Like I said before, we’ve all had to make serious changes in the last year. So, this book’s message about adapting and embracing change is definitely relevant. I also loved the family dynamics; I thought Harry’s relationship with his parents was very well-written.

Also, as a final note, I found the setting so interesting. I mean, obviously, the concept of living in the Canadian wilderness is just neat, to begin with, but I definitely think that aspect of the book lived up to my expectations. I was looking forward to seeing some cool nature stuff, and Blackwell definitely delivered on that front. Seriously, I haven’t hiked in a while since it’s winter, but this story had me ready to brave the cold for a winter-time hike! (And I read this right after Natural Born, so it was a double-dose of nature-themed reading that slammed me.)

All things considered, I definitely recommend this one! I’m certain kids would love this; it’s short, sweet, and fun, but it also has a great message. I also think Harry is easy to relate to, which is always a great thing for the main character to be! And if you or your kids do end up picking this one up, let me know your thoughts! I’d love to hear them!

[Eloise Mohan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heartwarming children's book

This is a lovely short children's story about a family who move from England to live in the woods in Canada. It explores themes such as navigating a move away from your family and friends, as well as touching on wilderness living and learning.
The family dynamics are beautiful, Harry's eagerness to be involved and help his parents is refreshing and genuine. It's a really well thought out novel and vicidly explains the steps of building a home and working with wildlife.
This was a joy to read.

[Chris Kora · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a story for young readers that follows Harry in his journey to move with his family for his dad’s work to another location without internet! Is such a great adventure book for young readers to read!

I received a free ARC copy of this book but that did not affect my review in any way.

[Leslie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the book but I feel like it was really predictable, and a bit cliche too. I liked it, I really did but I feel like there could've been more action or something.

[Always Forever Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a member of Goodreads, I am afforded the opportunity to meet individuals who, like me, love reading books. This is how I met Glen Blackwell. He sent me a message to ask me if I would review his preview copy of We’re Moving Where?! Because the synopsis sounded interesting, I agreed to read and review it.

Harry and his parents, Mark and Jess Jones, reside in England. Harry is living the fun life of a ten-year-old, watching cartoons, playing with his toys, and spending time with his friends. However, unbeknownst to Harry, his life is going to change in a major way.

This change focuses on Harry’s dad. When his father receives an offer for a new job, one that he should not turn down, Harry will have to relocate with his family. This new job is in Canada, and Mark and Jess are concerned with how Harry will react toward this news. At first, like most children, Harry does not want to leave his friends. But once he learns that they will be living adventurously in the woods and that he will be able to keep in touch with his friends, Harry warms up to the idea. Hence, moving to and living somewhere in the middle of the woods in Canada gives this novel its title, We’re Moving Where?!

While reading this novel, I also noticed the British spelling of certain words, such as mum, whilst, coloured, pyjamas, and favourite. I do not know if this strategy was intentional, but I liked it. It teaches children that the same words used in different countries have different spellings. This is a great way to allow students to learn about different countries. At the end of the novel, I did not want to stop reading, so I hope that Blackwell writes another book to give this story some closure.

I enjoyed reading this novel, as it was full of positivity. Page after page, I kept waiting for something terrible to happen. But with each page, I did not find anything negative. Moreover, this novel is full of adventure, and the events make this novel fun for students to read.

I was curious about the readability level of this novel, that is the appropriate grade level of it. To determine the grade level, I used two popular readability formulas to see if the grade levels of this novel were consistent. The first formula that I used was the Fry Graph Readability Formula. I randomly selected three 100-word passages. Then, I counted the number of sentences and syllables in the these passages. Next, I calculated the average sentence length and syllables; after calculating the average sentence length and syllables, the determined readability level of this novel is for students in the 7th grade.

The SMOG Readability Formula is the second method that I used to determine this novel’s readability level. With this formula, I randomly selected three passages consisting of ten sentences. Next, I found all the polysyllabic words, words with three or more syllables, in each passage. Then, I totaled the number of polysyllabic words in each set of three passages and found the closest perfect square of the sum. For the next step, I found the square root of the number closest to the perfect square. After finding the square root, I added three to the calculated square root; this will be the readability level. According to the SMOG Readability Formula, this novel is for students in the eighth grade. Therefore, I recommend that this novel, We’re Moving Where?!, is for for middle school students. It is a clean, appropriate novel that is full of much imagery, which will allow readers to use their imagination as they read.

[Namrata Ganti · Rating 4 out of 5]

We're Moving Where? follows Harry as he moves to Canada with his parents to live somewhere in the forest! Imagine a situation where there are no other people around, no internet, no school etc., just trees and animals all around. On top of this, you have to build your own Cabin to live in.

Wow! I thoroughly enjoyed this book which took us on an adventure with Harry. The author touches upon interesting and very pertinent topics of moving away, anxiety at not seeing ones friends, living in the wilderness and little access to technology. However, as the story progresses, the reader is introduced to the joys of exploring, camping and even learning how to do things by ourselves. There is so much joy in learning and this is shown to us in a lovely way through this book.

Even though the focus is on Middle Grade learners, this book can be read and enjoyed by all age groups. However, it is best when read together as a family.