Don’t Go Near the Creek

An interesting story, based on the author’s own experience as a child, 'Don’t Go Near the Creek', is about an introverted boy who spends his life reading and dreaming about the world, but not really being part of it. One summer day, “Young Adam, explorer, was ready to ride” and he does and adventure follows.

The story has very positive themes, with the importance of looking after the natural world and of caring for the creatures in it, and with Adam’s awakening to his own abilities. However, It can be read as an exciting adventure, but Adam’s risky behaviour does need to be discussed, and I advise reading this book aloud to a child.

The illustrations are vivid and detailed and encourage exploration.



It is a beautiful book, but I find Adam’s decision to ignore his mum’s admonition “Don’t go near the creek”, (which is emphasised also in the title) very problematic. Adam: ignoring danger signs; climbing into the slimy water; and biking alone in the dark, are all presented as victories for the young boy. Encouraging children to go beyond their fears and to follow their dreams is obviously admirable, but I think this book needs care in its presentation.