This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Shakespeare at Pooh Corner by Veronica Knox is a whimsical and imaginative novel that blends magical realism with historical intrigue. The story explores themes of identity, creativity, and the interplay between childhood innocence and adult introspection. At its heart, the book intertwines the fantastical world of A.A. Milne’s Hundred-Acre Wood with the enigmatic life of Edward de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford, who is presented as the true author behind Shakespeare’s works. The protagonist, Leela Swann, embarks on a transformative journey through Veratopia, a mystical forest where she confronts her past, her creative aspirations, and the shadows of her psyche. Guided by whimsical characters like Eeyore, the Cheshire Cat, and Absolem, Leela’s quest mirrors her search for healing, forgiveness, and self-discovery.
This unique narrative dynamic creates a tapestry of literary and emotional depth that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The forest’s rebirth through fire is a powerful allegory for renewal and the cyclical nature of life, while themes of reincarnation and redemption resonate throughout the story. Veronica Knox’s portrayal of Edward de Vere is particularly compelling, as she explores his struggles with betrayal, identity, and the burden of genius. His interactions with characters like Puck and Verity Ryder add mysticism and introspection, making his journey otherworldly. The interplay between historical figures and fictional characters enriches the narrative, offering readers a meditation on the creative process, the power of storytelling, and the enduring impact of literature. Shakespeare at Pooh Corner is a must-read for fans of magical realism, literary history, and those who cherish the imaginative worlds of childhood.
