Review sponsored* by Dimitris Chatzilias
The Children’s Book Review | December 12, 2017
Lex
Written by Dimitris Chatzilias
Illustrated by Dimitris Chatzilias and Chiara Sgatti
Age Range: 7 – 10 years
Paperback: 86 pages
Publisher: Blurb
ISBN: 978-1366058546
What to expect: Adventure and Independence
Lex is a thought-provoking tale for young readers that involves adventure, introspection, and an underlying theme of figuring out what it means to be free. The story begins when Lex notices that a bird he sees every day from his window is no longer there. As he wonders where the bird could have gone, Lex decides to search the nearby woods. While there, he meets up with his friend the oak tree, and has a number of run-ins with various other forest inhabitants.
His encounters in the forest lead him to question things about his life and the lives of those in the woods. He sees creatures that are struggling, some that are causing angst, and others that are helping those in need. As his day in the woods goes on, Lex finds more questions than answers, but he also learns that adventure and being far away from home can lead to a greater appreciation for home and everyday life:
“I think that it doesn’t really matter where you are. You are the one who gives meaning to things.”
Dimitris Chatzilias’s story is filled with philosophical questions that are presented to young readers in a relatable and easily digestible way. Each new part of the woods is described from a child’s point of view, creating visual pictures that will help to ground and orient readers as Lex enjoys his adventures. The written scenes throughout are supported by bold illustrations, providing depth to the vividly described forest that Lex and his oak tree friend are traveling through. The story concludes with Lex returning home with a stronger sense of self and a different view of the world.
This story is sure to interest young readers and encourage discussion, particularly for readers embarking on an adventure or that have gained newfound independence.
Available Here:
About the Author
Dimitris Chatzilias is a multidisciplinary person, balancing a technical and artistic side. He has a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and in Human-Computer Interaction. He has worked in construction, finance, and in the arts/design sector and is currently working in IT.
Despite his mainly technical academic background, he has always practiced visual arts and music.
His creative nature combined with his love for literature and philosophy led him to release three music books and lately a children’s picture book called “Lex”.
The motivation behind his latest creative venture, is his love for nature and an aspiration for leaving a small positive imprint in the world, by encouraging critical thinking for the world’s future citizens. He believes that juvenile literature and educational systems often underestimate children and deprive them of the mental challenges they deserve. He also thinks that philosophy should be part of everyone’s basic education and “Lex” is an attempt towards this.
Dedicated Reviews allow authors and illustrators to gain prompt visibility for their work. Dimitris Chatzilias sponsored* this non-biased review of “Lex.” Learn more about getting a book review …
