I have either read this book or seen a little movie it (is there even one of those?) because it seemed really familiar. I like the concept for the most part, though I think the concept may be a little high for young children. Overall I think it teaches a good concept, because I think a lot of us continue to do the same thing and expect different (or previous) results, when things have changed (isn't that the definition of insanity; yep! I'm definitely insane by that standard.) The book was long, so we read it in two sessions with my 3 year old son.
I loved this when I was little (say eight), but everyone else in my family detested it; Dad, in particular, found it patronizing and preachy--which, in retrospect, it is. I think it is a good idea, executed in a reasonable way, but not really a read that is "enjoyable" for the average person. I also don't know why I read it over and over--I had experienced no major upheavals is my life. Sometimes the mind works in odd ways; maybe this is the book that, years later, allowed me to recognize (intellectually if not practically) that I can't always run everything and that that is okay. Who knows?
I loved reading this to my 6 year old son and got a lot out of it myself. Change is hard at any age and I often talk about “rolling with the punches” with my son to help him learn to be adaptable. This fit very well with that and took it to another level. He also loved the story and pictures - it was very engaging to him.
The characters are looking for the magic cheese. Some will keep looking after the first cheese is gone, some will wait for more cheese to come, and some will giving up fear in order to get the new final price.
I recommend the childrens book over the adult! A great book to help you through changes. My wonderful sister-in-law, Meagan gave us this book as we were moving away from family. It has helped all 3 of us, including little Lisa to not be afraid of changes. This is going to be a family favorite.
Love this story! I can hardly wait it to start my school year with my high schoolkids in English class. It will be a fun discussion starter for the year