Book Review of Anything You Want
The Children’s Book Review
Anything You Want
Written by Rick Bobrick
Illustrated by Lauren Sullivan
Ages: 3-7 | 30 Pages
Publisher: Red Penguin Books (2023) | ISBN: 978-1637774670
What to Expect: Adventure, Fable, and Talking Animals.
A mischievous battle of wits, a dash of frontier spirit, and the timeless magic of three wishes make Anything You Want a read-aloud adventure that pulls young readers right into the story.
When legendary frontiersman Davy Crockett and a greedy grizzly bear are each granted three wishes, compromise is the last thing on either of their minds. What unfolds is a modern-day fable full of wordplay, wonder, and the kind of delightful rivalry that keeps pages turning — all while quietly reminding readers that a little belief can go a long way.
Bobrick brings a clever and distinctive voice to this tale. Whenever a bigger vocabulary word appears, Davy steps outside the story to ask young readers what it means — then offers a gentle prompt to guide them. This fourth-wall-breaking device isn’t just charming; it actively draws children into the narrative, making them feel like true participants rather than passive listeners. It’s a simple but effective technique that also makes this title especially well-suited for classroom and storytime settings.
Sullivan’s illustrations wrap the story in warmth, with rich fall colors and an inviting, rustic charm that feels right at home in Crockett’s legendary world. The artwork strikes a cozy, spirited tone—the kind that children will want to linger over and grown-ups will enjoy, too.
Anything You Want is a playful, imaginative picture book with genuine heart. Fans of folklore, talking animals, and interactive storytelling will find plenty to love here — and any child who has ever wished for something just out of reach will find a little magic waiting on these pages.
Buy the Book
About the Author
As a young parent, Rick Bobrick spent countless hours telling bedtime stories to his three children. Twenty-five years later, one of those stories has led to this first-time author’s unique picture book collection featuring Davy Crockett and his furry frenemy, the grizzly bear.
Rick is now retired and lives in Medusa, New York, with his wife Cathleen and his big dog Bean. He enjoys fly fishing, skiing, gardening, and spending time with his grandson. After a forty-year teaching career (mostly middle school science), having his children’s books published is a dream come true.
