This way to a sweet story about friendship and how even the least likely pair of friends can help each other when in need. This Way, Charlie is a story of a horse and a goat who both live at a rescue farm. Some animals are able to be released or find new homes, but others stay there. And Jack, a cranky ol’ goat who likes keeping to himself, is one of the forever ones. And when Charlie comes, a horse who seems nice enough but bumps into things, he throws things out of whack. You see, Charlie is partly blind. Eventually the two become friends, with Jack showing Charlie the ropes and Charlie helping Jack when he can. A couple of intense moments (the storm that traps Charlie and Jack’s fear of the barn are two) make this more for the older crowd.
Caron Levis crated a book that is a good way to teach about disabilities for the younger crowd. Equally sweet but somber illustrations by Charles Santoso round things out. And while they are not “jumping off the page happy” they are not gloomy. Their colors and details area treat to the eye. I would have to say they are “soft” but not delicate and bold but not overpowering. They help the story along, allowing for a story within the story and to accent the text.
Based on a couple of real animals, This Way, Charlie shows how to be kind and how you can overcome fears. This is the next buddy movie we need, but until then, this is the next buddy book to read.
