A classic amongst classics
I am thrilled that Bloomsbury have just published a brand new edition of this book for the UK market, putting it in the way of a new generation of children. The phrase ‘timeless classic’ is probably overused, certainly in book promotion, but Natalie Babbitt’s children’s novel from 1975 fully deserves this title. I would, without hesitation, include it in my top ten works of children’s literature. It has a period setting too, so has not dated in the slightest.
Over and above innumerable other qualities, which have already been rehearsed many times, two, for me, stand out. Firstly, without being in any way pretentious, the author’s use of language is quite breathtaking. Her book contains some of the most stunningly evocative descriptions to be found in children’s literature. Secondly, and perhaps most important of all, Tuck Everlasting is one of only a very small handful of novels for a young audience that tackle human life’s biggest questions in a profound yet totally accessible way.*
It may not be a book for every child. It needs sensitive and thoughtful reading. Its deeply moving and lyrical narrative is compulsive, but by way of engrossing intrigue rather than visceral excitement. However, it is a novel that has enriched the lives of many children and I hope that it will now do so for many more. It probably should be on the ‘bucket’ reading list of many older readers too. Ignore the movie and musical theatre versions, which are travesties. Read the book. Here’s another chance.
Note
* Others than come immediately to mind are:
The Giver by Lois Lowry
Once by Morris Gleitzman
Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
Orphan Island by Laurel Snyder
The Blue Cat by Ursula Dubosarsky
There May Be A Castle by Piers Torday
How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff