A Book Review: The End of the Beginning by Avi
If it’s going to be tomorrow, it might as well be today. And if it’s today, it could have been yesterday. If it was yesterday, then you’re over and done with it, and can write your own book.”
I frequent the library often, and on my trips, at least one child accompanies me. On the last trip, it was our ride-or-die intern, on a stroll of the stacks we came across The End of the Beginning, the cover told us that the story was about the adventure of a snail and an ant. I pondered whether or not this would be an attempt to revive Toad and Frog but it held its own. I think more adults should frequent the children’s section of libraries because there are times when the answers you need can be found in a children’s book. I’m not a professional critic nor a revered writer, but I believe this book is a hidden gem that should go down as a classic with those of Matilda and Charlotte’s Web.
Don’t look at the world with your eyes, but with your heart.
Avon the Snail is an avid reader, he reads about adventure so much and gets stricken by the illness of wanderlust and depression and decides instead of continuing to read about adventures he will go on one of his own. Before he begins his journey he meets an ant named Edward who decides to accompany Avon on his journey.
It’s better to look for nothing and find something than to look for something and find nothing.
The journey is from one end of a branch and back again, but you can imagine that for a snail and an ant that is a harrowing trek. Personally, as an anti-chemical advocate for yard insects, I found the setting to be a great segway into a discussion on the ecosystem and how many creatures we share our space with. On this one branch, Avon and Edward encounter many different creatures which is the case. Each encounter could also open up many other conversations depending on what you want to teach your child, or if you don’t and want to simply enjoy a fun story all in all this is a great read.
The whole point is that if you don’t know where you are, the best thing to do is write a poem.
This story touches on bravery, courage, empathy, and not letting fear hold you back from accomplishing your dreams. It’s short and simple and would make a great book to add to a bedtime routine if you read to your kids at night. I recommend this book to anyone who has children in elementary school, middle-grade age children might not enjoy it as it is a bit juvenile. If you’re a millennial tired of living through yet another unprecedented event and need something light and carefree then lose yourself in this cute little story.