"THE NEXT PLACE" IS FOR YOUNGSTERS 4 TO 104

A few weeks ago, I decided to read Shelby Foote's incredible narrative "Civil War". I'm halfway into Volume 1 but it's not a quick read so when I spied this book in my friend Ed Williamson's house, I asked to borrow it so I could have an "easy" read. Easy, "The Next Place" is. It's supposedly written for children from four to eight. And, I'm sure that age group does enjoy the seemingly simple language and gorgeous paintings and photographs.

But, as I approach the big SIX O (60), I find that meaningful messages be they in the form of literature, music or movies seem to move me more than when I was younger. As I've mentioned in reviews before, I've always been a sentimental viewer, capable of crying at Hallmark ads. And, yes, that is what this book made me do. Hanson's language and the art work lulled me into a peaceful appreciation of what may be the next stop for us and then quietly, gently tugged at my heartstrings.

I alluded to the beauty of this very short but sweet book in my review title. I think any age can enjoy it. Perhaps people in each generation will get a different message from the book, but there is something for everybody in Hanson's little blue book.

The plot? Well, there really isn't one. The book is actually a relatively short poem with just a few lines on each page. Each page has a beautiful illustration (also by Hanson) which fits perfectly with the words. The opening page reads:

The next place that I go

Will be as peaceful and familiar

as a sleepy summer Sunday

and a sweet, untroubled mind.

From there Hanson takes us on a journey of the unknown "Next Place" which includes the thrill of the journey and the wonder of the not-clearly-defined destination. With only the written word, the message would still be clear but not nearly as effective. With his illustrations (which appear to me to include at least one photograph) the overall effect is much stronger. Hanson manages to weave the short tale into a meaningful, joyful hope for all of our tomorrows.

Hanson's message does not really differ much from many of the great philosophers and religious figures of the past. What is important in this and the next place is not material possessions but the memories of all the friends and loved ones in our lives.

I feel that I haven't really done justice to this beautiful little book which takes less than five minutes to read. "Reviewing" it is a little like reviewing a beautiful piece of art that grabs you by the heart and soul. Suffice it to say, I don't really think there is an age limit for enjoying this book and understanding its message. FIVE STARS