Book Review: The Boy who Changed the World by Andy Andrews, Illustrated by Philip Hurst

The Boy who Changed the World by Andy Andrews actually tells the story of four boys who collectively change the world. Together, Norman Borlaug, Henry Wallace, George Washington Carver, and Moses Carver made a difference in our world by producing "super seeds" that are able to feed the hungry people in the world. Norman Borlaug developed these "super seeds" when Vice President Henry Wallace assigns him this task. Wallace was mentored by George Washington Carver who was adopted and raised by Moses Carver. The point of this book is to show children that their actions have consequences, sometimes great and good ones. In effect, this book encourages children to change the world. While I think this book is geared toward older children (ages 6-10), my older two children (2 1/2 and 4) enjoy this book immensely.

Most of my family enjoyed this book; I did, and my older children did. However, my husband and my mother think it is too long. The message was presented in a clear and interesting manner, and my four year old loves to have me read it to her. The illustrations are great! They are fun to look at, and my children enjoy pointing out the butterflies on every page. While the message is not a strong, spiritual one, it does encourage children to do what they can to make a difference in others' lives. I recommend this book to anyone who would like their children to consider what they might do to change the world. (I also find the message encouraging for adults!)

While I want to thank BookSneeze for sending me a copy of this book to review, my opinions are my own.