Who
doesn't like to root for an underdog? As I read Totem Magic, Going Mad,
I cheered for Enrique and Connie to win against the evil witch doctor who kidnaps
Connie's father, the leader of Green Force. Furthermore, I rooted for Enrique
to discover the strength and courage within himself to fight against bullies;
those in school and in the secretive Magic User community.
John Griffith, a California environmental
educator, wrote an engaging and creative book for teens. Connie and Enrique, otherwise
known as Vulchy, are best friends in sixth grade whose families are part of the
Magic User community. Each member of the community is a totem mage born with
the gift to protect an animal threatened by extinction. Going MAD in the Magic
Users community is a rite of passage. The community and the world's existence are
threatened when Connie's dad is kidnapped by Kaktor, the evil witch doctor.
Will Connie and Enrique save Connie's dad and the planet? The story has a
surprising twist to keep the reader engaged to the end.
The author had the best time creating and
writing about the funny, unusual and sometimes grotesque cast of characters
that Connie and Enrique run into along their quest. Both teens are forced to
problem solve in unique ways to conquer physical and mental obstacles; each
given a magical tool, sunglasses and flip flops, by the people's witch to aid
them.
Connie, a black girl, is a strong character
who doesn't take crap from people, witches or monsters. Her strength throughout
the journey helps Enrique to notice his own in spite of his fear. So when
Vulchy vomited green puke on the vampire to escape death, I cheered with pride.
In the end, it’s Vulchy becoming his totem
mage that lifts his wings in ultimate self-confidence. Totem Magic, Going
Mad is an engaging read for teens and adults that mirrors the complex
themes of bullying and environmental degradation present in today’s world.
Note: This book was published by Wheatmark and is available on Amazon. All proceeds from the book are donated to four environmental organizations.
John Griffith will give young conservations a free copy of the book in PDF form - we ask that you join our community, sign up for the newsletter, and share the stories of your good work, and work that still needs to be done.
ReplyDeleteContact us at TotemMagic.com, or write to Totem@EAlvarez.org.
Thanks SO much for your support.