Customer Reviews

The End of the Beginning: Being the Adventures of a Small Snail (and an Even Smaller Ant)

5 star:		(15)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Avon, a small snail, has never been blessed with experiencing an adventure. However, he has heard that adventures are the key to happiness in life. So, with the help of his new friend, a small ant named Edward, Avon sets out to experience a journey. One that will make up for all of the adventures that he has missed in his short lifetime. During their journey, the two young adventurers meet up with all kinds of wonderful, and fantastical beings, and strange creatures, including something that Avon has always wanted to meet up with face to face - a dragon!

Phenomenal author Avi once again proves that he has the talent to write in various different genres, with his latest effort THE END OF THE BEGINNING. Filled with two wonderful young characters who are inquisitive, brave, intelligent, and loving, Avi shows readers, young and old, that even the smallest creatures think, and gives us all a new respect for snails as well as ants. With wonderful black and white sketches contained on almost every page, as well as a beautiful harcover format, that fits right into your pocket, this is an absolute must-have. NOTE: Don't be intimidated by the page count (143). The large-set font, as well as the illustrations make this book a quick read, that is a wonderful start for young readers trying to read on their own.

Erika Sorocco
Book Review Columnist for The Community Bugle Newspaper

This is my favorite book ever. It was very,very funny. It was funny when they found a worm that went to sleep and then, when it woke up, it forgot which end its head was supposed to be on. Then they had to tickle the ends to find out what end was which.

I"m seven and I think that this book should be read from second to fifth grade. I thought this book was great because they (Avon and Edward) talked themselves into things that are not really true and in that way it"s really funny. They go on an adventure and think it"s the beginning but it"s really the end.

Avi's THE BEGINNING OF THE END is short and enjoyable. It's the tale of Avon the snail who meets Edward the Ant. The two become friends and embark on a series of adventures which take them virtually nowhere, and yet fun and delight still manage to ensue.

The most surprising thing about this little book is how it incorporates different motifs in to its plot development. While reading I was reminded of the likes of ALICE IN WONDERLAND, DON QUIXOTE, THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH, and PILGRIM'S PROGRESS among others. The story is interwoven with plays of words, behavior, and even theology. Although the book is written for very young children, only a more mature mind will pick up on Avi's subtle morals in the book. Perhaps it is best read aloud to children. Also, you need not agree with all of Avi's lessons (Edward's faulty belief in the "Invisible Magician" may sound like an espousal of atheism to some), for the story is not without merit.

Avi wrote a sequel called A BEGINNING, A MUDDLE, AND AN END. I look forward to enjoying that one as well.

Newbery Medalist Avi writes a new book reminscent of A. A. Milne (Winnie-the-Pooh) at his best, but with a charm all his own. Avon, a snail, decides to go out on an adventure after reading about so many adventures in books. In the process of leaving, he becomes friends with Edward, an ant, just in time to say good-bye. After a suitable good-bye--no one likes long good-byes-- Edward catches up with Avon and they continue the adventure together. Simple logic, whimsical word play, and hidden humor follow them along the way as they experience numerous beginnings and endings. Their adventures and friendship are quirky and charming, but far from sappy or sweet. Ultimately, when their journey is finished, they discover that they have only reached the end of the beginning, a wonderful philosophy of life for young and old.

Suitable and highly recommended for middle readers and up. This book also makes a great addition to a personal library since it will hold up to multiple readings thanks to its witty insights into life and living.

What an inspiring book. It's ageless!! This would be a terrific book for a graduation gift. Also a great read for the person who is a little down on their life. Every ending is a new beginning!!!! Everyone can accomplish anything with determination and a little friendship, along with individuality.

In The End of the Beginning by Avi, Avon, a snail, is depressed for the lack of adventure in his life. With the encouragement of his friend the newt, he decides he must have an adventure. A new acquaintance, Edward the ant, promises to give Avon the answers to all his questions, "even if they're the wrong answers," and they're off! At turns charming and ponderous, the adventurers have experiences that will be enjoyed at one level by children, and at another level entirely by older readers and adults. Wordplay and humor feature heavily, but not in a pun-driven manner; rather in a style that delights and really escorts the reader into the realm of philosophy. What is an adventure, and what may be the charms of home when seen through a fresh perspective? A delightful read for advanced elementary readers through adults.

Avi tells a tale of two unusual friends. Avon, the snail and Edward Ant who become best friends and adventuring partners. You see, after Avon read many books he realized he was sad that he had never been on an adventure. He quickly decides that he is going to go on an adventure to help himself become happy once again. Edward and Avon, though they don't truly travel as far as they think, find adventure in the simplist of things. Together they learn a few lessons and help new friends along the way.

This story is good for sharing with young readers. It is very simple to understand with short chapters. Pictures by Tusa help to give the adventure a little more fun. In truth, I enjoyed the Secret School House by Avi better, but a good story over all.

By Kerri J. Busteed
Author of Will's First Hunt Will's First Hunt

My 7 year old has been resistant to reading on his own, especially fiction. I was thrilled to find this book and see his enthusiasm for it. He completed it in 3 days, with great retention. I am here looking for more in the series!

My son and I read this book 3 days, it was funny and funny! All of the little stories and lessons and words of wisdom that they gave each other was so smart! We can't wait to read the next one, we are going today to buy it!