Ophelia's Shadow Theatre

Always expect the impossible with Ende; as the Neverending Story fascinates and expands the concept of reality for chlildren, even 5 year olds, this story too moves us beyond the expected. The story is touching and mysterious, and it reaches a point that could be the end, but the author instead takes us into the afterlife. Younger children who have not dealt with the concept of death may find the plot twist disturbing, but most great fairy tales (especially German ones) aren't sugar coated, afterall. The illustrations are dramatic and beautiful, and the story is inspiring and transcends expectations.

Kindly old woman loses her job and place in society when she loses her job as a prompter in a theater. She begins taking in unwanted, homeless shadows because she knows how they feel. Teaches about love, compassion and substitute families. Beautiful, dreamy illustrations show the frailty of Ophelia and the light within the shadows. Not for everyone, but will speak to the heart.