Memoirs of a Tortoise

Oliver and Ike delight in each other’s company, enjoying the beauty of the hibiscus-filled gardens and engaging in hours of playful fun together. They are an unbreakable team, one a tortoise and one a man, both eighty years young. When fall approaches and Oliver discovers that the baby pool hasn’t been stored away for the season, and that the homemade meals he savors have ceased to be delivered, he can’t help but notice Ike’s absence. When November arrives and he discovers that people have come to pay their respects to the family, an overwhelming sadness and confusion envelops him. It’s only after seeking his mother’s wisdom that he understands it was simply Ike’s time to go, and every precious moment he spent with him was a gift to be treasured.

This is a beautiful story about love, companionship, life, loss, grief, and acceptance. The story is told from the tortoise’s perspective, adding a unique warmth and ingenuity to it. He captures a full calendar year of his life on paper with a short but meaningful entry for each month. The reading level of the text is approximately second to third grade, although the audience is considerably more broad, namely children aged five to ten. This book will undoubtedly touch the hearts of young children, sparking laughter, contentment, and even a few tears. With each additional read, they will likely uncover new insights into the brilliance of this masterpiece.