Benji

Allison Thomas really did a wonderful job with this novelization of Joe Camp's original screenplay of the movie Benji. Much of the magic of the greatest family film of all time is translated remarkably well into these pages. While mere words on a page can't capture the depth of emotion and intelligence Benji expressed visually in the film, the spirit, pathos, fright, wonder, and excitement of Benji's heroic adventure are all here. There is no embellishment to the story, as this is a truly faithful adaptation of what you will see in the film, but it is well worth reading. Children in particular may attain a better understanding of certain aspects of the film by reading this book or having it read to them. I should emphasize the fact that this does make a wonderful children's book; it is by no means written "down to" children at all. Benji is a gift to children (and adults) of all ages.The story itself revolves is a tale of adventure, love, friendship, sacrifice, and incredible courage, all viewed through the eyes of a very special dog . Benji has many friends all over town, but he calls home an old abandoned house that has stood vacant for at least forty years. He enjoys his independence, though, and greets each day eagerly, always heading first to the Chapman house for breakfast with his special friends Paul and Cindy. From out of the blue, though, Benji's life changes dramatically. First he meets a little white dog, a pedigreed little cutie with class and charm; it's love at first sight for Benji, and he settles into a new life, one shared with little Tiffany. Then a group of people invade his happy home, soon bringing in two kidnapped children who turn out to be Paul and Cindy Williams. Only Benji can save the children, but he will have to risk everything he values the most in order to save the day. Benji will forever be the world's most huggable hero, and he really was an important part of my childhood. This story means a great deal to me, and I feel sure it will continue to touch the lives of all children who are fortunate enough to discover and come to love this most remarkable of canines.