Book Review: The Wild Book / Juan Villoro

This is certainly a wildly imaginative book about books and reading. Does that sound boring? It isn't, but it does start slow. (Also note that this is a translation and the wording is a little awkward at times.)

Juan is excited about starting on summer vacation until he learns that he is being sent away to his Uncle's house for the summer. At first he doesn't believe it, his sister is being sent to her best friend's house - why does Juan have to live with his elderly uncle.

But soon after arriving at Uncle Tito's house the magic begins.The house is not only huge but a labyrinth of books as well. There are so many twists and turns that Uncle Tito requires Juan to carry a bell with him in case he gets lost. And then the books begin to move of their own volition. 

If you are both a lover of books and a lover of magical realism, you will love this book - no matter what your age.

"Every book is like a mirror: it reflects what you think. It is not the same if it is read by a hero than if it is read by a villan. The great readers add something to books, they make them better." (Page 69)