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A Not So Misfit Odyssey review by Beauty | LitPick Book Reviews
A Not So Misfit Odyssey review by Beauty
Age Range - 8 - 12
Genre - Animals

LitPick Review

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Age at time of review - 22
Reviewer's Location - Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
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A Not So Misfit Odyssey is a middle-grade adventure book by John F. McCarney that tells the story of an Iberian pig who tried escaping from a “festival” after realizing that he had been chosen to be slaughtered. 

Juanito, an Iberian pig, grew up in a lush Dehesa with the thought that one day, he would definitely become a ham. One day, a strange disease attacked the oak trees that harbored his homeland, and because of this, he was sold off to the “Festival of Hams” in Buenos Aires.
In order not to be used as a ham, Juanito decided to fight for freedom by escaping. He journeyed across South America, where he met other animals with the same fate as him. Together, they discovered their goal was to find the River of Nueces, which they believed was a mythical sanctuary where animals can survive freely. On their way, their journey was tested as they faced smugglers and even betrayals; it was a test of loyalty and courage as they strove to survive.
 

Opinion: 

While the book was based on a natural setting, its tone possesses an allegorical and fable-like quality. The main characters are animals who think and speak like humans. Juanito, written as a pig, is not just a pig; he is a representation of anyone who feels trapped in a system they did not choose. The book had a moral undertone, as every part of Juanito's escape journey was filled with moral lessons; the tone impacted this lesson in a gentle manner without preaching and by reflecting on qualities such as freedom, kindness, and greed.

While reading, I learned from Juanito that freedom is not just about escaping, but instead it is an inner state whereby I live free in spirit. I also learned that without kindness, freedom will harbor loneliness, and kindness, without courage, can fade away. So in order for one to be truly free, I learned that I must always give, forgive, and take a step forward even when the path is filled with uncertainties.

From the beginning I felt Juanito's emotions, which were tangible. He did not become a hero by choice; instead, the thought of being slaughtered frightened him and that was what fueled his desire to survive by going on despite exhaustion or despair. As the story progresses, the emotions become more layered. As Juanito met with other animals, I observed the power of empathy within their companionship. Their kindness was displayed towards one another as they risked their safety for friendship. Each act of care brought them closer as they navigated the cruel world. The author’s use of empathy was considered a defiance against the world, which is ruled by indifference. These emotional stakes are not just about trying to survive but also about preserving the animal spirit even in a harsh world.

 To conclude, I would say that the book is a compelling one that uses the adventures in it to explore themes such as freedom and belonging.  i would recommend this book to middle-grade readers and young readers. Fans of animal adventures will also love this story.

Rating:
4
Content Rating:

Content rating - nothing offensive

Explain your content rating: 

I found nothing wrong while reading this book.
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