BOOK: You’ve Got Me Wishing for Wishes Again
WRITTEN BY: Maggie Pagratis
ILLUSTRATED BY:  Geert Verscheure
PUBLISHED BY:  Athse Publishing (2006)
ISBN:  0-9781475-5-3

You’ve Got Me Wishing For Wishes Again, by Maggie Pagratis, is a beautiful little book that will bring as much joy to parents as it does to children.  The book follows a young boy growing up in Africa.  Despite the exotic location, the story will resonate with children from all backgrounds.  Using richly colored illustrations by artist Geert Verscheure and lyrical prose, Pagratis invites young readers to share in the protagonist’s dreams for peace and happiness for his family and the world. 

Though written for children, the book is a far cry from the typical children’s book.  The illustrations avoid the overly stimulating bright primary colors and instead use warm browns, beiges, and subdued yellows to create a calming and tranquil mood.  The text, though geared for young minds, is intelligent and thoughtful enough that adult readers will also be inspired.  The total effect is one of tranquility, introspection, and self-empowerment.

Empowerment, it seems, is the real motivation behind this book.  Besides discussing topics like family and friendship, the book also steps into an area often ignored in children’s books:  personal freedom.  Set against the African backdrop, the message of individual freedom and the wish of following one’s own dream are powerful.  The book doesn’t just encourage the reader to dare to wish.  It challenges them to do so.