Community Reviews

Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
40(40%)
4 stars
32(32%)
3 stars
28(28%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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If it wasn't for Sister Willburn, I'm certain that I would simply view this as a delightful book boasting an engaging plot. However, given that this was one of the books I was required to read for English this year, I had the privilege of hearing all of her remarkable insights regarding it. Natalie Babbitt's messages concerning religion and education were truly profound (albeit they reminded me a great deal of Ben, ha, ha).


Summary: Gaylen, the adopted son of the prime minister, embarks on a journey to conduct a poll in the kingdom to uncover the true meaning of the word "delicious." Along the way, he encounters several interesting characters, among them Ardis, the mermaid. Simultaneously, the queen's brother Hemlock is inciting the people to rebel in an attempt to usurp the throne for himself. When Gaylen meets Ardis, he also discovers the means to rescue the kingdom from chaos. This story takes readers on an adventure filled with mystery, self-discovery, and the battle between good and evil. It makes one think deeply about the values and concepts that shape our lives and society.
July 15,2025
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This is a book that I read when I was a child.

It has always remained in my mind, and whenever I feel thirsty, it comes to my thoughts.

It is a beautifully crafted fairy tale.

However, beyond its enchanting story, it conveys a very adult message.

The message emphasizes the value of water resources and the foolishness of arguing and fighting over insignificant matters.

This book makes me realize that we should cherish the precious resource of water and not waste it.

Also, it teaches us to look beyond the trivial and focus on what truly matters.

I would definitely read this book again.

It not only brings back childhood memories but also provides valuable lessons that are relevant to our lives today.

I believe that everyone should read this book and reflect on its profound message.

July 15,2025
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**The Search for Delicious**

By Natalie Babbitt


3.5 of 5 stars

To be honest, I have always had a penchant for reading children's books. As we grow up, we come to realize just how many valuable moral lessons they can impart. In an effort to expand my English vocabulary, I decided to embark on the journey of reading a classic children's book. In fact, I borrowed this particular book from my senior, who recommended it to me if I wished to enhance my English language skills.



The story, "The Search for Delicious," follows Gaylen, the King's messenger. He is entrusted with the mission of finding the definition of "delicious." At first glance, it may seem like an easy task, but in reality, it proves to be quite the opposite. DeCree, the Prime Minister, is in the process of creating a dictionary, where each alphabet has its own specific definition. However, everything takes a turn for the worse when DeCree attempts to define the letter 'D'. There is a fierce disagreement between him, the King, the Queen, and the General. As absurd as it may sound, if this argument is not resolved promptly, it could potentially lead to a civil war.



For more in-depth reviews, you can visit this link: https://www.theredglowofthedawn.com/2...

July 15,2025
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This book presented a writing style that was highly reminiscent of the old-timey or fairytale genre.

The story within it resembled an ancient fairytale, and if such a style is your cup of tea, you are bound to fall in love with it.

However, it should be noted that the mermaid, who one might expect to be a central figure, was scarcely mentioned. Moreover, she was depicted as a small child, in contrast to the young lady who graced the cover of the book I had.

Alas, this particular aspect didn't quite appeal to my personal tastes. It seems that while the book had its charm in adhering to the fairytale formula, it deviated in a way that made it less than perfect for me.

Nevertheless, for those who have a penchant for traditional fairytales with a touch of nostalgia, this book might still hold some allure.
July 15,2025
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Natalie Babbitt has once again crafted another charming tale.

In a distant kingdom, long ago, the king's prime minister was engaged in the arduous task of compiling a dictionary. However, the definition of the word "delicious" had become a source of great contention, dividing the entire kingdom.

No one seemed to be happy with the situation, except for Hemlock, who harbored a secret desire to claim the kingdom for himself.

To resolve this problem, an unlikely alliance would need to be formed. It would involve a mermaid, some dwarves, three woldwellers, the winds, a traveling minstrel, and the king's messenger Gaylen.

For in this unique kingdom, a single word had the power to ignite a war. The fate of the kingdom hung in the balance as these diverse characters came together to find a solution and restore peace.

What adventures and challenges would they face along the way? Only time would tell in this enchanting story.
July 15,2025
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Kesinlikle okuduğum en güzel Babbit buydu. Nefis!


This Babbit was truly the most beautiful one I have ever read. It was delicious!


The story was captivating from the very beginning. The characters were well-developed and full of life. The author's writing style was engaging and made it easy to get lost in the world of the book.


I loved how the plot unfolded, with its twists and turns keeping me on the edge of my seat. The descriptions were so vivid that I could almost picture everything in my mind.


Overall, this Babbit was an absolute delight to read. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great book to enjoy.

July 15,2025
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Amazing!


At first glance, it might seem "BORING". However, if you take the time to read it carefully, you will discover that it is extremely, extremely, extremely worth reading.


I have to admit that initially, I was a bit skeptical. But as I delved deeper into the text, I was pleasantly surprised. The content is engaging, thought-provoking, and full of valuable insights.


It's not often that you come across something that appears uninteresting at first but turns out to be a hidden gem. This piece definitely falls into that category.


After reading it, I found myself reflecting on the ideas presented and considering them from different perspectives. It has truly broadened my horizons and made me think.


Based on my experience, I would rate it a solid 4 out of 5. It may not be perfect, but it has enough merit to make it well worth your time and attention.

July 15,2025
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I thought that this book was extremely interesting to read.

It vividly shows how irrational humans can become.

The entire story was based on the argument that sent the entire country into a state of frenzy.

The search for the meaning of "delicious" had led the kingdom and its inhabitants into an argument over this one conflict.

Since everyone was busy fighting with one another, it provided an opportunity for tyrants to take control.

This story reminded me of how Hitler took control of Germany when the Germans had lost World War I.

When everything is in a mess and everyone is arguing, it becomes very easy to manipulate the situation.

We should always be vigilant and not let such chaos lead to the rise of tyranny.

By learning from the mistakes in history and the fictional events in this book, we can strive to maintain a rational and peaceful society.
July 15,2025
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Well, this was indeed a rather strange book.

It belongs to that category of juvenile books featuring a king, a minstrel, and such, which always makes me feel a bit queasy.

Nevertheless, Babbitt does an excellent job, and despite the absurdity of the entire topic, the book turns out to be quite entertaining.

The prime minister's adopted son, Gaylen, is tasked with a quest to poll the kingdom to determine the food that everyone deems delicious for a dictionary term.

However, riding ahead of him is Hemlock, who spreads rumors and lies about the poll before Gaylen arrives, sabotaging the effort.

At one point, Gaylen has to flee a town due to the anger of the townspeople and even contemplates letting everyone have their war and joining the mythical creatures in the woods who have already chosen to disengage from human society for similar reasons.

Thankfully, Gaylen decides not to stand idly by and takes action to help prevent war.

The situations in the book are somewhat far-fetched, but the writing remains of high quality.

Although it's not typically the kind of book I would choose, I found myself sitting and reading it in one sitting, so I must have had some enjoyment from it. :)
July 15,2025
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A cute elementary grade level book indeed! I had the pleasure of reading it in 4th grade, right before delving into the magical world of Harry Potter after it first made its way to the US. This little book played a significant role in reawakening my love for reading and starting my bookish ways. I truly believe that if it weren't for this charming story, I might not have been motivated enough to pick up a longer and more challenging book. Now, I have purchased it with the intention of sharing it with my kids in the future, so they too can enjoy its simple yet delightful charm. It is a cute and easy book that I would highly recommend to be placed on any teacher's shelf. In my opinion, it is suitable for audiences of all gender identities, as its appeal lies in its engaging narrative and relatable characters.

July 15,2025
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A wonderful book indeed!

This is a captivating book that is specifically designed for kids, perhaps those in the 4th grade and older. The main character, who is 12 years old, takes the readers on an extraordinary adventure. The setting of the book is somewhat fairy-tale-ish, which adds a touch of magic and wonder. However, what makes this book truly remarkable is that the plot made me think of some real-life situations that are happening now. It has a unique ability to connect the fictional world with the real one.

One of the best aspects of this book is that you can easily identify with the main character. You can feel his/her emotions, fears, and hopes as if they were your own. Moreover, all the other characters in the book are definitely their own persons, each with their own distinct personalities and characteristics. This makes the story even more engaging and interesting.

Overall, this is an exciting book that is filled with lots of human-type dangers and also fantastical beings. It is a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good adventure story.
July 15,2025
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I read this book to my 3-year-old, and now she is completely in love with Ardis the mermaid!

The story is beautifully written and truly enchanting. It's hard to believe that this wonderful tale escaped my awareness until now.

As a child, I would have adored this story just as much as I do as an adult.

The vivid descriptions and charming characters bring the world of Ardis to life.

My little one listens with wide eyes and a big smile, completely captivated by the adventures of the mermaid.

This book has become a favorite in our household, and we can't wait to read it again and again.

It's a magical story that will surely delight children and adults alike for years to come.
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