I have never read any storyline so incredibly creative of a child going on a mission and returning a grown man, both physically and mentally. This story was very detailed and very in-depth as to how Al’s grandfather, the shaman, was ready to pass the responsibility of Al becoming the next shaman of the tribe. I loved the transformation you see in the pages that only happened in a short amount of hours and felt that Marin Darmonkow meticulously planned his story to unfold the way it did for his readers. Quite truthfully, this concept was a fascinating one to read about. Readers will be so engrossed in the story that they will travel alongside the grandfather and Al, seeing every step Al takes along the way. They will be cheering him on that he succeeds in learning the next steps of becoming the tribe’s shaman.

Although there is a brief mention of the tribal members, the entire story is written around the shaman and his grandson, Al. These two being the focal point throughout makes readers feel fully invested in how Al’s journey turned out for him when they get to the ending of the story. I feel this will teach children that if they set their minds to something, they can achieve whatever goals they set for themselves no matter their age.

The illustrations, which were also provide by Marin Darmonkow, were quite different and very much unique in design. Each illustration looked like a full-page painting and each had been done with exceptional details that enhanced the story being told. The colors were done in muted tones, which matched the earthy colors of the shaman and Al’s outside journey together. Also worth mentioning, Darmonkow uses unique font designs throughout with the intention that each illustration and font is a masterpiece in itself.

Overall, Al’s Journey is a story that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. It has a well-crafted storyline, two main characters that you invest yourself in getting to know, and wonderful illustrations that complement the storyline perfectly.