Dickens & Rumi
Cover of RETURN

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RETURN

Aaron Becker

The final entry in the Journey series returns readers to an alternate existence with the help of some magical crayons. (Ages 4 to 8)

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Violence2/5

Strongest positives

  • Creativity & curiosity5/5
  • Positive messages4/5
  • Courage & resilience3/5

What’s in it?

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Ominous creatures, confinement, pursuit, and a parent in danger may unsettle some children, though the whimsical fantasy style softens the threat.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Fantasy confrontations, pursuit, capture, and escapes create peril, but the violence is stylized, non-graphic, and lacks realistic injury detail.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

The characters show bravery by exploring new worlds and reconnecting with each other.

Creativity & curiosity5/5
Why this rating?

The entire premise is built on using imagination and art to transform reality.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

The characters are rendered in a stylized, universal manner.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Encourages visual literacy, narrative construction, and creative thinking.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

The story centers on a touching, kind reunion between a child and a parent.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

The book emphasizes the power of creativity, connection, and reconciling family relationships.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The father and daughter demonstrate curiosity, courage, and mutual care.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What was the most imaginative idea in the story, and what would you add to it?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in RETURN would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in RETURN, and what caused that change?
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