A book that took me by surprise. Totally! Even though I appreciate John Boyne as an author and Oliver Jeffers as an illustrator, for some reason I had not been drawn to this book, which is one of the titles for Hong Kong's Battle of the Books 2014. Consequently, I had not even read the blurb and eventually just picked it because I had read most of the other books by now. (Actually, I did not pick the printed book but downloaded the audio version.) By the time the toy maker began to share his memories with Noah Barleywater, I knew I loved the story - but also had no doubts that I would have my heart broken while reading it... A touching, heart-warming and thought-provoking fairy tale. It's such a great book. It's good for all ages I suppose. Also, It actually is intelligent in a way as it brings up the issues that every person goes through, in a fun, quirky way i.e. Loss of someone who was important in our lives, running away from home not realising that time flies by and the people that we love won't be around forever. I guess it teaches you that running away from problems isn't always the best solution, and we should really appreciate the people around us a lot more as there will be a day they won't be there anymore. It's just my opinion really. The book itself is fantastic and would recommend to anyone who needs a little pick me up.
What do You think about Noah Barleywater Runs Away (2010)?
Certainly a different slant on Pinocchio & covers some big life issues.Well worth reading.
—ImmanFolks
Looks quirky and wonderful, but was so so dull. I had to quit.
—sihgorgeousttahp
Not my type of book. It was a bit boring, but cute story.
—melissa
