So says the Horse to the Velveteen Rabbit in Margery Williams’ famous and much-loved literary classic.
Now the beloved children’s classic comes to vibrant life as well. A plush rabbit—given as a gift to a young boy—yearns for the day the boy will choose him as his special playmate, so that he can become real.
Juveniles on Brink of Personal Journey, Says Youth Advocate
It’s only appropriate that fantastical genres of storytelling are often geared toward pre-teens, says writer Elayne James.
“It’s an extremely impressionable time, with the wonder of childhood firmly established and a dramatic transformation about to take place,” says James, author of “Destiny’s Call,” the first installment of the fantasy series “The LightBridge Legacy,” (www.lightbridgelegacy.com).
It’s also not surprising that the “Lord of the Rings” movie trilogy from 2001 to 2003 was one of the most successful in film history – and that fans were eagerly anticipating director Peter Jackson’s return to Middle Earth on Dec. 14 with the release of “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,” she says.
In addition to being masterfully interpreted on the big screen, many of us were attached to the story from the books, which are often introduced during the middle school years. The narratives and personal experiences we have during preadolescence tend to stay with us more than those from other phases of life.
Researchers frequently cite pediatric neuroimaging studies, which show that during the ages of 11 and 12 our brain development is at a fundamental stage. A four-month journey across America at that age left an indelible impression on James. The trip culminated in New York City which became the launching point for the “Tolkien-esque” adventure in her most recent novel.
Strings Concert, part of the Plano Family Symphony Sundays, is a fun, interactive, concert for kids ages 3-10 and their families featuring the String instrument family. Children hear, see and learn about the many different instruments as they interact with the musicians.
There will be children’s activities before the show in the lobby, including the Instrument Petting Zoo, Conductor Station, Storyboard/iPod Station, Coloring Station and Craft Station.
