Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite
James’s Journey: An Amazing Adventure by Asha Khalil takes young readers along on a bicycle trip with James, who cannot wait to ride his new, bright red shiny bicycle. During the next couple of weeks, James spends every free minute learning how to ride his bicycle. James lives near the woods and one day he decides to take a steeper hill at the far end of the woods. He knows he is not supposed to be anywhere near the woods on his own. Something strange happens when James goes along the road. He sees a hole in the road, but it is too late and he has an accident. James tries to find his way home and strange things happen; the trees are all upside down, the houses are like upside down triangles, and a woman whom he meets is walking on her hands. Will James finally be able to reach home?
This fantastical adventure story will take readers through many thrills and magical moments that will leave them enthralled and enchanted. The narration is detailed and descriptive, thereby making it palpable to young readers. Children will be hoping to experience the same adventure and magical trip as James when they ride their bicycles. It is fascinating to see ordinary people doing extraordinary things, making everything look bizarre and weird. It is a story children will enjoy reading and it makes a good story for classroom read aloud sessions because of the adventure and fantasy part. The story is also good to help children imagine and dream.