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Out of the Shadow World
Ten-year-old Pax Jackson doesn’t know if he’ll make it to his next birthday. He has cancer. And he’s about to embark upon an unforgettable adventure. At their favorite climbing tree, Pax and his best friend, Jayni, meet Wilmer—a comical bellbird who introduces them to a magical realm of delightful and bewitching creatures.
The children sail a vast sea, navigate a frightening forest, and summit a perilous mountain in search of a mysterious man who might be able to heal Pax. Will they be thwarted by a malevolent weeping willow, a horde of Bumfuzzles, or the dragon snake? The kids face their fears and the lurking evil that threatens to destroy them. And they also contend with their own inner Pax, wounded by Jayni’s ignorance of suffering, and Jayni, resentful of how Pax’s illness has changed him.
Will the mysterious healer meet their dreams and expectations? Pax and Jayni return to their world with newfound joy and hope—and a keen awareness of the very real magical world that lies within their shadow world.
In Out of the Shadow World, Colleen Chao masterfully weaves a tale of suffering and joy. Children will be captivated. Readers develop empathy and a theology of suffering that equips them to both face difficult circumstances and love others who are experiencing hardship.
The children sail a vast sea, navigate a frightening forest, and summit a perilous mountain in search of a mysterious man who might be able to heal Pax. Will they be thwarted by a malevolent weeping willow, a horde of Bumfuzzles, or the dragon snake? The kids face their fears and the lurking evil that threatens to destroy them. And they also contend with their own inner Pax, wounded by Jayni’s ignorance of suffering, and Jayni, resentful of how Pax’s illness has changed him.
Will the mysterious healer meet their dreams and expectations? Pax and Jayni return to their world with newfound joy and hope—and a keen awareness of the very real magical world that lies within their shadow world.
In Out of the Shadow World, Colleen Chao masterfully weaves a tale of suffering and joy. Children will be captivated. Readers develop empathy and a theology of suffering that equips them to both face difficult circumstances and love others who are experiencing hardship.
217 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 2, 2023
6 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Elisabeth Chao
4 books10 followersCOLLEEN CHAO has written extensively about finding God's goodness in the unexpected chapters of her life, including singleness, chronic illness, and terminal cancer. She's worked as an editor and writer for global organizations, and an English teacher to some of her favorite people on earth—teenagers. When she's not wrangling words, she enjoys beautiful hikes, side-splitting laughter, and half-read books piled bedside. She makes her home just outside Boise, Idaho with her husband Eddie, their son Jeremy, and Willow the dog.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 29, 2019
Amazing book!!! Great for children and adults. Such a fun and adventurous read!
February 13, 2024
I wept through this book in gladness. It is truly such an incredible book for children who suffer. All of my children understood in deeper ways than I would like and we all felt the truth behind "in mundo patiens-spero."
Every one begged for one more chapter.
My daughter often commented "I know what it's like to be like Jayni. "
What a fun, yet deeply powerful read.
Every one begged for one more chapter.
My daughter often commented "I know what it's like to be like Jayni. "
What a fun, yet deeply powerful read.
June 15, 2023
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
Scripture Connection
For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
2 Cor. 4:17
Spiritual Themes
Sweet, sweet allegory! This is my very favorite genre, and one that is so close to my heart because of how the Lord uses it to speak to me. Out of the Shadow World differs from other children’s allegories, in that the book is not so much a “struggle of good vs. evil” story (though that theme is present), as much as it is about God’s goodness in, and sovereignty amidst, sorrows. In fact, author Colleen Chao is in treatment for a cancer that the doctors deemed incurable. Out of this suffering, she wrote In the Hands of a Fiercely Tender God (31 day devotional, Moody Publishers, Oct. 2022), as well as Out of the Shadow World. As I consider those titles, I like that each starts with an opposing preposition, but we see that we are WITH God, whether “in” or “out.”
The book also has the strong message of identity in Christ, depicted allegorically.
I didn’t bookmark as I read, but I also recall encountering quite a few gems of truth: poignant and powerful statements that drew me closer to reality and “out of the shadow world.”
What I Liked
I came across this title in a newsletter from Amanda Cleary Eastep, author of the award-winning Tree Street Kids series– and editor of this middle grade novel! I was drawn to it because of the allegory, though I wasn’t sure how I’d feel reading a book about a kid with cancer (I like to keep my reading light… or suspenseful). As I started reading, I was aware that Colleen Chao had cancer. I didn’t realize until I started writing my review that she has cancer, presently. That fact makes an already-powerful book even more beautiful and awe-inspiring. I am so glad that the Lord called her to write this beautiful work, which abounds in truth: not only in the sense of the book conveying spiritual reality, but even more so in the sense that the author’s words are rooted in the ministry she has personally received from the Lord. It makes the message of the book so much more real.
Absolutely beautiful.
The Delight
I started reading Out of the Shadow World one Shabbat (Saturday, day of rest), and I was enjoying it so immensely that I asked my mom if we could read it together. We do often read together, but this was my first time reading with my mom on my first trip through a book. It was just so charming! The book felt to me like a mixture between The Chronicles of Narnia and The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles (but, disclosure, it has been a very long time since I read the latter).
There were cute, whimsical characters, charmingly imaginative settings, and best of all, transporting snacks that demand to be eaten (My mom regularly prepares a raw vegan drink that is very similar to popple-cream, so that was a lot of fun!).
The Themes
I format my reviews with a spiritual themes section up top, but I wanted to expand here because of how well the author did with some harder content. Throughout the book, Pax wrestles with the terrifying knowledge that he’s sick. He doesn’t know if he’ll make it to his next birthday. As with The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip, the knowledge of death is a big part of the story, but the story is ultimately one of hope, not tragedy. Rather than providing easy answers, the author takes her readers on a journey that paints a deeper reality– beyond the “shadow world.”
We see the same “shadow world” theme explored in Lewis’ The Silver Chair, and it is one of my favorite themes to read. In Out of the Shadow World, the deeper reality is actually experienced through grief and hardship, which was a different take. I really appreciate that Chao doesn’t shy away from this discussion with young readers, and speaks at their level without patronizing. And yet, the story is thoroughly delightful. It’s weighty, but the message is one of hope and the journey is so much fun!
Content Note (Spoilers)
Recommendation Status
Gladly and highly recommended. Out of the Shadow World differs from most allegories I’ve read, because of the emphasis on sickness and sorrow. Chao does a fantastic job of writing to a young audience without dumbing down the message. Thoroughly charming, the story conveys powerful truth and ministers the love of God to its audience. This is exactly the kind of book I would have delighted in as a youngster (in the company of The Chronicles of Narnia and The Archives of Anthropos), and I am so happy to recommend it, now.
Scripture Connection
For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
2 Cor. 4:17
Spiritual Themes
Sweet, sweet allegory! This is my very favorite genre, and one that is so close to my heart because of how the Lord uses it to speak to me. Out of the Shadow World differs from other children’s allegories, in that the book is not so much a “struggle of good vs. evil” story (though that theme is present), as much as it is about God’s goodness in, and sovereignty amidst, sorrows. In fact, author Colleen Chao is in treatment for a cancer that the doctors deemed incurable. Out of this suffering, she wrote In the Hands of a Fiercely Tender God (31 day devotional, Moody Publishers, Oct. 2022), as well as Out of the Shadow World. As I consider those titles, I like that each starts with an opposing preposition, but we see that we are WITH God, whether “in” or “out.”
The book also has the strong message of identity in Christ, depicted allegorically.
I didn’t bookmark as I read, but I also recall encountering quite a few gems of truth: poignant and powerful statements that drew me closer to reality and “out of the shadow world.”
What I Liked
I came across this title in a newsletter from Amanda Cleary Eastep, author of the award-winning Tree Street Kids series– and editor of this middle grade novel! I was drawn to it because of the allegory, though I wasn’t sure how I’d feel reading a book about a kid with cancer (I like to keep my reading light… or suspenseful). As I started reading, I was aware that Colleen Chao had cancer. I didn’t realize until I started writing my review that she has cancer, presently. That fact makes an already-powerful book even more beautiful and awe-inspiring. I am so glad that the Lord called her to write this beautiful work, which abounds in truth: not only in the sense of the book conveying spiritual reality, but even more so in the sense that the author’s words are rooted in the ministry she has personally received from the Lord. It makes the message of the book so much more real.
Absolutely beautiful.
The Delight
I started reading Out of the Shadow World one Shabbat (Saturday, day of rest), and I was enjoying it so immensely that I asked my mom if we could read it together. We do often read together, but this was my first time reading with my mom on my first trip through a book. It was just so charming! The book felt to me like a mixture between The Chronicles of Narnia and The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles (but, disclosure, it has been a very long time since I read the latter).
There were cute, whimsical characters, charmingly imaginative settings, and best of all, transporting snacks that demand to be eaten (My mom regularly prepares a raw vegan drink that is very similar to popple-cream, so that was a lot of fun!).
The Themes
I format my reviews with a spiritual themes section up top, but I wanted to expand here because of how well the author did with some harder content. Throughout the book, Pax wrestles with the terrifying knowledge that he’s sick. He doesn’t know if he’ll make it to his next birthday. As with The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip, the knowledge of death is a big part of the story, but the story is ultimately one of hope, not tragedy. Rather than providing easy answers, the author takes her readers on a journey that paints a deeper reality– beyond the “shadow world.”
We see the same “shadow world” theme explored in Lewis’ The Silver Chair, and it is one of my favorite themes to read. In Out of the Shadow World, the deeper reality is actually experienced through grief and hardship, which was a different take. I really appreciate that Chao doesn’t shy away from this discussion with young readers, and speaks at their level without patronizing. And yet, the story is thoroughly delightful. It’s weighty, but the message is one of hope and the journey is so much fun!
Content Note (Spoilers)
Recommendation Status
Gladly and highly recommended. Out of the Shadow World differs from most allegories I’ve read, because of the emphasis on sickness and sorrow. Chao does a fantastic job of writing to a young audience without dumbing down the message. Thoroughly charming, the story conveys powerful truth and ministers the love of God to its audience. This is exactly the kind of book I would have delighted in as a youngster (in the company of The Chronicles of Narnia and The Archives of Anthropos), and I am so happy to recommend it, now.
April 5, 2023
This book was such a powerful, adventurous, heartwarming, exhilarating read—and this is coming from someone who practically *never* reads middle-grade fiction.
This story about a cancer-ridden young boy who dreams of healing and returning to his old life, a supportive and empathetic best friend whose sense of adventure is unparalleled, and a band of fantasy creatures with moral qualities (but extremely fun personalities) was one which I will never forget. Its biblical allegories are suitably subtle—not "preachy" or overstated—but not so subtle that they will breeze over the reader's head, making this a perfect read for both the strong believer and the average young reader. I've never read "The Wingfeather Saga," but from the little bit I've heard of and seen about it, this book absolutely reminded me of it due to its splendid mix of whimsical names (like "Bumfuzzles"), quirky characters, and virtuous themes.
As a voiceover artist, I was so blessed and honored to have had the opportunity to record the Audiobook narration for this book as well as all of Chao's individual (and might I add, very unique) characters. For most books I narrate, though, I don't feel the need to review it as a reader. It's just a job.
This wasn't.
I found myself engrossed in this book as I read on, Chao's vivid descriptions easily painting a picture of each and every environment in my head. As an author myself, I recognize the struggle to fill the blanks in the reader's mind regarding fantasy worlds because no one knows it like the author does. Chao, however, never fails to give the reader all the kindling they need to light the fire of imagination. I could taste the popple-cream, smell the sea spray, and hear the creaking of wood upon The Mersades, the magical ship which transports our heroes to so many locations of adventure.
A few points and characters I adore:
• I love Pax's journey and character arc; he is a very well-fleshed-out character, and even though I did not relate to all of his struggles, he still is somehow extremely relatable. I think everyone has at least once experienced the attacks of fear and uncertainty to which Pax is all too accustomed.
• Declan. Just...Declan. :3 I *may* be slightly biased here, as his Scottish accent and rough voice (as a fan of all things Scottish, Irish, or otherwise Celtic in general) was my favorite character to perform in the narration, but I assure you, his character is also my favorite because of his overall personality. He is stoic, courageous, and weathered, yet he is reassuring and kind at the same time. He is an excellent father figure or at least mentor; three cheers for Colleen Chao's amazing Scottish Hobblechaun!
• Wilmer—need I say more? This talking bird (three-wattled bell-bird, to be exact) has literally made me break character just to laugh during recording. I love his lines to death, especially how he misspeaks so many idioms and phrases. "Might as well kill two stones with one bird, I always
say" definitely had me cackling.
The following paragraph regarding the elegantly woven plot has some spoilers, so it's hidden.
All in all, I give five stars for this wonderful book. I recommend it to any and all young readers—and even adults too! To anyone suffering or witnessing a friend suffer, I recommend this book to serve as a bit of inspiration that even in the darkest pits of our Shadow World, there is a Healing Man, and there is hope.
This story about a cancer-ridden young boy who dreams of healing and returning to his old life, a supportive and empathetic best friend whose sense of adventure is unparalleled, and a band of fantasy creatures with moral qualities (but extremely fun personalities) was one which I will never forget. Its biblical allegories are suitably subtle—not "preachy" or overstated—but not so subtle that they will breeze over the reader's head, making this a perfect read for both the strong believer and the average young reader. I've never read "The Wingfeather Saga," but from the little bit I've heard of and seen about it, this book absolutely reminded me of it due to its splendid mix of whimsical names (like "Bumfuzzles"), quirky characters, and virtuous themes.
As a voiceover artist, I was so blessed and honored to have had the opportunity to record the Audiobook narration for this book as well as all of Chao's individual (and might I add, very unique) characters. For most books I narrate, though, I don't feel the need to review it as a reader. It's just a job.
This wasn't.
I found myself engrossed in this book as I read on, Chao's vivid descriptions easily painting a picture of each and every environment in my head. As an author myself, I recognize the struggle to fill the blanks in the reader's mind regarding fantasy worlds because no one knows it like the author does. Chao, however, never fails to give the reader all the kindling they need to light the fire of imagination. I could taste the popple-cream, smell the sea spray, and hear the creaking of wood upon The Mersades, the magical ship which transports our heroes to so many locations of adventure.
A few points and characters I adore:
• I love Pax's journey and character arc; he is a very well-fleshed-out character, and even though I did not relate to all of his struggles, he still is somehow extremely relatable. I think everyone has at least once experienced the attacks of fear and uncertainty to which Pax is all too accustomed.
• Declan. Just...Declan. :3 I *may* be slightly biased here, as his Scottish accent and rough voice (as a fan of all things Scottish, Irish, or otherwise Celtic in general) was my favorite character to perform in the narration, but I assure you, his character is also my favorite because of his overall personality. He is stoic, courageous, and weathered, yet he is reassuring and kind at the same time. He is an excellent father figure or at least mentor; three cheers for Colleen Chao's amazing Scottish Hobblechaun!
• Wilmer—need I say more? This talking bird (three-wattled bell-bird, to be exact) has literally made me break character just to laugh during recording. I love his lines to death, especially how he misspeaks so many idioms and phrases. "Might as well kill two stones with one bird, I always
say" definitely had me cackling.
The following paragraph regarding the elegantly woven plot has some spoilers, so it's hidden.
All in all, I give five stars for this wonderful book. I recommend it to any and all young readers—and even adults too! To anyone suffering or witnessing a friend suffer, I recommend this book to serve as a bit of inspiration that even in the darkest pits of our Shadow World, there is a Healing Man, and there is hope.
September 8, 2023
How can kids cope and encourage those with cancer? In Out of the Shadow World, Colleen Chao shares a story for young readers about childhood cancer, suffering, and joy.
Complicated Emotions
Pax Jackson is a 10-year old boy with cancer. In this book, he and his best friend Jayni set off on a fantastical adventure in search of the Healing Man. When they return from their journey, their friendship is strengthened and they are both changed for the better.
What I most appreciated about this book is how it addresses the inner struggles of both Pax and Jayni. While Pax is wounded by Jayni’s ignorance of suffering, Jayni is resentful of how Pax’s suffering has changed him. These are complicated emotions, and the book treats them seriously.
Empathetic and Encouraging
Pax and Jayni encounter various creatures and make different choices throughout the book. Their different worldviews are expressed in their words and actions. When Pax and Jayni meet the Healing Man, he gives them a hope that they both did not have before. This was a moving story to read and experience.
There is a theology of suffering contained in this book that is empathetic and encouraging. It is a beautiful work of art and a wonderfully blessed word of hope for those who are suffering — and for those who love them.
I received a media copy of Out of the Shadow World and this is my honest review.
Complicated Emotions
Pax Jackson is a 10-year old boy with cancer. In this book, he and his best friend Jayni set off on a fantastical adventure in search of the Healing Man. When they return from their journey, their friendship is strengthened and they are both changed for the better.
What I most appreciated about this book is how it addresses the inner struggles of both Pax and Jayni. While Pax is wounded by Jayni’s ignorance of suffering, Jayni is resentful of how Pax’s suffering has changed him. These are complicated emotions, and the book treats them seriously.
Empathetic and Encouraging
Pax and Jayni encounter various creatures and make different choices throughout the book. Their different worldviews are expressed in their words and actions. When Pax and Jayni meet the Healing Man, he gives them a hope that they both did not have before. This was a moving story to read and experience.
There is a theology of suffering contained in this book that is empathetic and encouraging. It is a beautiful work of art and a wonderfully blessed word of hope for those who are suffering — and for those who love them.
I received a media copy of Out of the Shadow World and this is my honest review.
Read
April 21, 2024Aside from Pax's cancer, the story starts out fairly goofy and with a rather cheesy feel. This improves as the story goes on, and all of that (Wilmer, the mashup of Hobbit/Christmas elf/leprechaun, among other things) fade into the background while the deeper threads about death and suffering come to the forefront in a way that really was beautiful--though also more allegorical than I had anticipated.
My kids enjoyed it. I would have had a hard time with it as a kid for the same reason above; even at a young age I had little taste for fantasy that had any "goofy" in it. It's not poorly done; my dislike is purely taste, and with such a heavy topic, having something to lighten it up is probably good. I think if I had borrowed the book from the library instead of purchasing it, we wouldn't have finished it.
But, I am glad that we did.
Because what I didn't like about it is so clearly taste, I'm not giving it a star rating.
My kids enjoyed it. I would have had a hard time with it as a kid for the same reason above; even at a young age I had little taste for fantasy that had any "goofy" in it. It's not poorly done; my dislike is purely taste, and with such a heavy topic, having something to lighten it up is probably good. I think if I had borrowed the book from the library instead of purchasing it, we wouldn't have finished it.
But, I am glad that we did.
Because what I didn't like about it is so clearly taste, I'm not giving it a star rating.
July 28, 2023
Overall I think this book is well done. For such a small book it's imaginative and has colorful characters. The writing was a bit expositiony at times which was disappointing, but it is a kids book and it wasn't bad enough to annoy me. My biggest contention was with a character that I assumed represented Christ. At one point a couple of the characters bow to him and he tells them not to because he's going to lead them to someone greater, which didn't make sense to me if he was supposed to represent Christ because we absolutely should bow to the Son of God. I may have had it wrong and that character might have actually represented the prophets, but either way I may also be expecting too much theology from a kid's book lol. Still a great read to teach kids that sometimes God tells us no to the good things we ask for so that He can give us something better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2023
This allegorical tale will stick with me for a while. My imagination was sparked by all of the delightful characters and scenery. When I learned from other readers that the story is an allegory, my mind was more attuned to each character and I was engrossed in trying to figure out who or what each character represented. I certainly received the message that God is close to the broken hearted during suffering and that His presence and treasures makes all of the suffering this side of heaven worthwhile in the end. I can’t wait to read this with my kids when they are older and sip some popple cream while we do so!
September 21, 2025
It’s hard to put into words the emotions this book brought to my heart. It hits so close to home at the moment, but the beautiful truths in it, though painful to read at points, were the exact reminder I needed of the hope of Eternity we have in Christ.
This world is painful. Walking through cancer with a love one is nearly unbearable. But the kindness of the Great Lord and the promise of perfect healing in heaven is all sustaining.
Thank you, Colleen Chao, for using your pain and suffering to point others to truth and perspective. Just like in the Hands of a Fiercely Tender God, the Lord used your words to be manna for my soul.
This world is painful. Walking through cancer with a love one is nearly unbearable. But the kindness of the Great Lord and the promise of perfect healing in heaven is all sustaining.
Thank you, Colleen Chao, for using your pain and suffering to point others to truth and perspective. Just like in the Hands of a Fiercely Tender God, the Lord used your words to be manna for my soul.
September 11, 2023
I adored this book. I cried at the end! As a teacher and believer, this book is such a beautiful allegory and framework through which to view suffering as a believer. What do we do when God doesn’t heal us, even though we know He can?
The writing is beautiful, the description of the world they’re in is so vibrant. I would have loved this book as a 10 year old and I love it now. Can’t wait to recommend it to my students :)
The writing is beautiful, the description of the world they’re in is so vibrant. I would have loved this book as a 10 year old and I love it now. Can’t wait to recommend it to my students :)
June 13, 2024
What a poignantly beautiful story! It shines a light of meaningfulness and hope on all the suffering we go through in this shadow world, and nearly had me in tears at several points. It is a kid-level book (and we loved it as a read-aloud - it’s also goofy and funny!), but rich enough for adults to benefit from as well. A must-read allegory for anyone walking a path of suffering, and for those who are supporting them on that journey.
May 5, 2024
“Out of the Shadow World” is an inspiring, magical adventure with imperfect characters and captivating writing. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and going on the adventure in a magical world. Great themes to take away- friendship, kindness, and contemplating the purpose of life’s difficulties. Loved it!!
July 30, 2024
A children’s chapter book meant for us all. You’ll chuckle and be captivated by magical beings and events, and realize that all the while it’s pointing to Biblical hope and is one giant metaphor pointing to Christ and heaven. Truly such a fun, sweet read that left me full of feels and tears. Highly recommended.
September 8, 2025
Our family loved this book that was gifted to us! Each chapter led to memorable conversations about suffering, cancer, healing, and Heaven. I loved how it got the kids thinking about the purpose of suffering, the pain of being sick or knowing someone who is sick, and the hope we have beyond the “shadow world” in a way that was age appropriate. Will read it again!
March 3, 2024
I chose to read this book as our read aloud for homeschooling. We are very closely going through someone with cancer and this book made me cry and resonate. The kids really liked this book and couldn’t wait for me to get to the next chapter each time. We learned and felt a lot.
September 8, 2023
I read this aloud to my 8 year old. The characters were delightful. The themes of suffering, healing, forgiveness, and grace were fertile ground for good conversations after each chapter.
October 2, 2024
So sweet! I finished it in one sitting. 💙
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews