Herman by Tyler Roberson

Herman by Tyler Roberson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Herman is simply a "good old tale" for young and old alike. While this book is geared for children (1st grade through 5th grade) it was enjoyable for me to read aloud to my daughter. It is not a faith based book, but the story is simple, clean, wholesome, fresh, down-to-earth, and lovable. Unknowingly, the children who read this book are learning about responsibility, work ethic, respect of authority, and how to care for God's creatures. This bittersweet tale had us both laughing and crying and we enjoyed the trip back in time through the pages of print.

This book is probably more of a 3rd grade+ reading level but makes a good book to read aloud since it’s a short chapter book.  While it’s great for anyone, if you have boys it’s a must read!

BOOK OVERVIEW:

In the aftermath of a severe thunderstorm, young Gene Todd discovers an orphaned green heron trapped beneath a nest on the bank of his favorite fishing hole. Ever so carefully, Gene carries the baby bird to the small farm where he lives with his grandparents and Uncle Don. Determined to rescue his new friend, Gene names the tiny bird "Herman" and takes care of it while also tending to his many responsibilities on the farm.

Uncle Don-- a particular favorite of Gene’s—brings a good-natured, generous, and affectionate element to Gene’s life on the farm in the 1940s. Gene, who has often wished for a friend his own age, soon finds himself becoming attached to Herman. Although Gene realizes he will have to set Herman free eventually, when the heron begins to show signs of independence, Gene looks towards that day with dread and uncertainty. When the time comes, Uncle Don's kindness helps Gene to see the good in releasing his friend. Gene's sorrow is replaced with joy and pride as he rejoices with Herman in his new-found freedom.

AUTHOR BIO:

Tyler Roberson was born in Cheboygan, Michigan in 1964 and adopted by Todd and Rosemary Roberson, along with his two brothers and two sisters. His father Todd is the inspiration for the character Gene in his children’s book, Herman. His lifelong love of animals and small farm life was kindled and then nurtured on his grandparents' farm which was literally "over the river and through the woods."

Tyler graduated from Cheboygan Area High School in 1982. He went on to attend North Central Michigan College in Petoskey and graduated from that school with an Associate of Arts degree. He continued his education at Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. He graduated from CMU in 1990, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and History. Tyler's interest in history and the daily occurrences of life in the past have had a strong influence on his writing as has his love of animals and small town life. He enjoys traveling to places in America that are historically significant. A particular favorite is the Gettysburg Battlefield in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. He also enjoys visiting places of natural beauty such as Yellowstone National Park. Another influence on Tyler's writing is the close knit, loving family in which he was raised. The importance of a loving family is important to him and is evident in his current book. It will continue to resonate through future projects as well.

Tyler is a grateful lifelong Michigan resident. He currently lives in Harrison, Michigan with his wife Kim. Tyler enjoys traveling throughout Michigan, learning about its history and the lives of the people who reside there. His has one son, two stepdaughters, and one stepson. He is also blessed with four beautiful grandchildren with whom he enjoys spending time.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Winepress Publishing.

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