Review

“Towards New Goals: Adventures in Time and Space” by Bernadino Schwimmeltrik is a captivating novel for young readers, featuring the protagonists ÖffliBöffli, Pelle Pistol, and Kalle Kanon. These characters, although animals, exhibit human traits and interact with people as equals.

The story revolves around the trio’s extraordinary journeys through different times and spaces. They visit prehistoric times, interact with cavemen and Neanderthals, and travel to a futuristic planet inhabited by robots. They explore ancient civilizations, meet Aztecs, Romans, and Vikings, and witness monumental events like the construction of the Egyptian Pyramids and the Great Wall of China. They explore the depths of the ocean and journey through distant galaxies, giving readers a sense of wonder and adventure. They also join Francis Drake in his battle against the Spanish Armada and take part in significant historical river expeditions along the Mississippi and Yellow Rivers.

The story includes fantastical elements such as riding dragons and surviving encounters with mythical creatures and natural disasters like snowstorms, tsunamis, and sandstorms. Schwimmeltrik creates well-rounded characters whose curiosity and bravery drive the narrative. The distinct characteristics of each character enrich the story, adding complexity and interest to their adventures.

ÖffliBöffli is a cheerful pig whose extensive reading and passion for learning make up for his shyness and lack of physical strength. Pelle Pistol, a sophisticated cat with a flair for fashion, balances his vanity with his bravery and exceptional marksmanship. Kalle Kanon, a sturdy bulldog with a stern exterior but a kind heart, brings immense strength and courage to the table, combined with a practical, no-nonsense attitude. Their distinct personalities and complementary skills enrich their adventures and highlight themes of friendship and perseverance.

What I particularly like about the book is its skillful blend of adventure and education. Schwimmeltrik makes historical facts engaging and enjoyable by placing them within thrilling and imaginative scenarios. The detailed descriptions throughout the book help readers feel like they are truly part of each setting, vividly bringing the diverse environments to life. Additionally, the humor and realistic dialogue between the characters enhance the book’s appeal, making it engaging and enjoyable while also informative.

While I found the book highly enjoyable, there are a few minor drawbacks. Sometimes, the transitions between different time periods and settings felt a bit abrupt. This could momentarily disrupt the narrative flow and make it harder for readers to stay fully immersed. Additionally, certain historical events were covered too briefly, which might leave some readers craving more detail. Despite these issues, they do not significantly diminish the book’s overall appeal. Furthermore, the editing is impeccable, with no noticeable errors, ensuring a smooth and pleasant reading experience.

I highly recommend “Towards New Goals: Adventures in Time and Space” to young readers who enjoy a blend of adventure, history, and fantasy. It’s an excellent choice for parents and educators aiming to introduce children to historical concepts in a fun and engaging manner. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars; I deducted one star due to the occasional abrupt transitions and the brief treatment of some historical events. These factors slightly affect the book’s coherence and depth. Nonetheless, the book’s imaginative storytelling and compelling characters ensure that readers are both entertained and inspired to explore history and science.

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Towards New Goals
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Latest Review: Towars New Goals by Bernadino Schwimmeltrik

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