The Eyes & the Impossible
The Eyes & the Impossible
Dave Eggers
Penguin, 2023
251 pages
Grades 3-7
Animal Fantasy
This is the story of Johannes, a free dog who lives in a park and has an important job. He serves as the “Eyes”, observing everything and then reporting to the the Keepers, the bison who are in charge and maintain the equilibrium of the park. The bison though wise are restricted by an enclosure and rely on Johannes who is fast, fast, fast. Johannes loves to run and he dashes around the park chatting with his other animals friends, eating out of garbage cans, and staying out of sight from the “control the animal” folks. All is well until changes begin to brew. Johannes comes to the public’s attention when he performs a brave deed, distracting art is added to the park, and goats arrive to eat up the weeds, bringing a new friend. As Johannes’ position becomes more vulnerable and secrets are revealed he gets a great idea: could he orchestrate an escape for the bison in order for them to be free like he is? A complicated plan ensues. Will the animals be able to pull it off?
Welcome to the 2024 Newbery winning novel! Yes, I missed this one, but enjoyed it after finally reading it. Eggers is a talented writer and this story is beautifully crafted with every word carefully chosen. Young readers will enjoy this tales of an animal society within a public space and wonder who may be lurking in their own local park. The plot is brisk and Johannes experiences danger, wonder, and growth. There is enough going on to keep young readers interested, yet the book contains another philosophical layer that may go over the heads of a young audience, but adults will appreciate, making this book a great family read aloud. There were a couple of cool twists that readers may figure out before our protagonist, adding to fun. Double page paintings by Shawn Harris are a cut above what we usually see in books for kids and add another layer of richness. Eggers presents the story in the first person, allowing for the reader to see a dog’s perspective and truly experience Johannes’ journey. A fine book that feels like an instant classic.