The Storyteller

06/02/2023

The Storyteller written by Brandon Hobson

Upon opening the book and reading the first chapter, we meet Ziggy and his sister, Moon. We are given an overview of their personal history, as well as some history of the Cherokee people that came before them. We also learn that Ziggy struggles with anxiety and learn of the strong bonds of his family, united in grief.

Ziggy’s mother was one of the many Native American women that went missing with no explanation. Ziggy cannot seem to get over the loss of his mother or the fact that he has no memory of her. However, he does know she loved the desert, taking pictures, and exploring caves.

Ziggy, now 12, with his new friend, Alice, sister, Moon, and best friend, Corso, go on a midnight exploration in the desert hoping to find clues or a sense of his mother many years past her disappearance. What they discover is part magic, part trickery, and a lot of love as they encounter Native Storytellers in many different forms who try to ease their burden, and convince Ziggy and Moon to move on with their own story.

After the night of adventure, Ziggy’s grandmother asks him, “What did you learn?” If you have read the book, you may know the answers, but the question is to help Ziggy and readers know that sometimes when you stop and think, you may find the answers you need.

This story of grief, loss, anxiety, love, and acceptance will resonate with anyone experiencing similar loss. The magic of the storytellers provides insight into Cherokee legends and culture.

In the Author’s Note, Hobson says, “we’re living in dangerous times, with repeated school shootings, and a deadly pandemic. How do kids deal with loss…and how do they manage hope, forgiveness, and acceptance.”  

“A captivating testament to the healing power of stories.” - Kirkus

Reviewed by Nancy Stetzinger Penworthy’s Product Manager.

 

Q& A with Brandon Hobson

Q1: What was your favorite book to read as a child? Or favorite genre?

A1: Some of Brandon’s favorite books to read as a child were Alice in Wonderland and the Amelia Bedelia Books.

 

Q2: If you could have dinner with any writer living or dead, who would it be?

A1: If Brandon could have dinner with any writer living or dead, he would choose Emily Dickinson.

 

Q3: What did you want to be when growing up? Did you dream of being a writer?

A3: Brandon wanted to be a musician/rockstar when growing up! Brandon found his love for writing in college after taking a creative writing course.

 

Q4: What was your favorite subject in school? Do you use it in your books to relate to kids?

A4: Brandon’s favorite subjects in school were Art and English.

 

Q5: What do you want kids to take away from your book? What message?

A5: What Brandon wants kids to take away from his books is that everyone deals with loss and anxiety and for kids to keep hope.