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This book is part of a children’s book series that is focused on helping youth embrace diversity. Its narrative is heartwarmingly authentic, and the story comes at a time when society seems to be divided and determined to pick a fight about just about everything. The book provides parents and the adults of tomorrow a guide map on what true inclusion looks like. Above all else, Duggan’s work is a friendly reminder to young and old that family is the strongest pillar, and it comes in many shapes and sizes. In truth, there is no "typical" family.
The catalysts in the story, C.C. and J.J. Wackadoodle, are the epitome of compassionate human beings who live a storybook life on Flower Street in Wonderland. Interestingly, from the outset, the work takes on a luminescent and hopeful outlook with street names like “flower” and a town as wondrous as “wonderland.” The illustrations throughout the work continue that tone of optimism and hope, particularly in the sketches and illustrations of each member of the Wackadoodle family. The energy and liveliness of the kids, both those who are born into the family and those the Wackadoodles have welcomed into their hearts and lives, are pure and a delight to experience.
Undoubtedly, a blended family such as this one that includes kids from all areas of the globe including, but not limited to, Kenya, Croatia, and the UK, is remarkable and a strong statement that humanity is meant to coexist together and thrive off each other’s strengths and differences. Whether it’s breaking through Dorian’s shy exterior or helping twins Coco and Mabel from China assimilate through their love for fashion, the nuances of every child are kept at the forefront as a top priority by the Wackadoodles. Individually, every child has talents and incredible untapped potential. Collectively, however, the family unit comes together as a collaborative juggernaut, always there for each other, be it something as simple as homework or slotting one’s self on the chores calendar.
Structurally, the book is more or less an introduction to each member of the Wackadoodle family and their unique passions, of which there are many. Fashion, jazz, reading, singing, soccer, football, esports, and much more make the list. This is a story for dreamers, such as the kids who envision themselves as the quarterback of their football team or the ones who believe they can do anything. This unyielding optimism is what makes the narrative endearing to all audiences. In subsequent Wackadoodle adventures, this well-developed character foundation will be useful as readers will know exactly who is who as they interact with their world and learn all sorts of meaningful lessons as a result.
Digging deeper, this is far more than a children’s book. It is a work that speaks to all members of a family and the contributory role they play in keeping a successful family system functioning. The idea of older kids helping younger kids do homework or talking about one’s day, good or bad, may seem foreign in this technologically dependent world, but in many ways, the author encourages audiences to give it a try, to reignite the human connection within the family and see the beautiful sparks that fly. Ultimately, Duggan’s work plants the seeds of collaboration and togetherness in young minds, all while delivering an enriching Wackadoodle family experience.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review