Books with author Christopher Young

What can a young kangaroo teach kids about life? It that kangaroo is Joey, the answer is "plenty." From lessons about talking to strangers to what to do when you’re tempted by your peers with cigarettes, drugs, or alcohol, Joey demonstrates how a child with the loving support of his parents can live a safe life and avoid the harm that can come any child’s way. Each of these lessons is presented in clear, loving language that will be accessible to the young and serve as a guide for parents looking for a way to talk about difficult subjects with their children.

Ever since he was a geckling, P.D. Puddleskipper dreamed of exploring the world just beyond the Kapok tree. For P.D. life was more than simply gathering grubs and lounging about in the sun like other geckos. Life was an adventure! But not until a terrible metal beast attacks the Emerald Forest does he finally get his chance. Piloting his latest invention, an airship called the Puddlejumper, P.D. leads his friends, fellow lizard Flora Springtail, a tree frog named Blinky, and a sleepy tree sloth named Waffles on an incredible journey in search of a new home. Join the crew of the Puddlejumper as they bravely venture forth across the Emerald Forest, battling sticky-fingered fruit bats and slippery snakes, exploring far-away places, looking for lost treasure, and making new friends along the way. From Way-Up peak to the Rollie-Roo River, the Cave of Song to the Great Kapok Tree, P.D. and his friends learn the value of friendship through their exciting adventures.

Boko is a book. He no longer lives in the children's section of the library but has been returned to his original owner, Emily, who, with her two grandchildren Ella and Peter and their friend Stephen, has discovered that Boko can talk, and he tells them of his adventures. Emily has made a big red tote with a clear window so that Boko and his two book friends Sylvie and Big Book can go with them to visit a friend of Emily's who has a farm and where they intend to have a picnic. Previously, the books have always been in backpacks or suitcases and have seen very little, but this time they are excited as they can see where they are going and have a real adventure when a goat runs off with the bag while Gran and the children are enjoying their lunch! They have fun visiting all the animals, and Sylvie names a calf.

Being a true lover, I was inspired to write a story of Boko after observing the way in which people in waiting rooms, airports, and trains unwittingly mistreat their magazines and particularly books. During Boko's travels, he experiences being "hurt" many times, and by weaving these things into his story, I hope that readers will be reminded to value and respects their books throughout their lives.