Alfie Runs Away

Alfie Runs Away by Kenneth M. Cadow

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Who hasn't wanted to run away as a child? This is a story most kids will relate to. Meant for the very young, PK- 1. Alfie takes his beloved things and runs away rather than lose his favorite shoes. He makes it only to the backyard before he misses home. Illustrations are good and go well with the story.


Booklist (June 1, 2010 (Vol. 106, No. 19))
Preschool-Kindergarten. Picture-book shelves overflow with stories of furious young kids who protest injustice by packing up their essentials (snacks, stuffed animals) and running away, often making it only as far as the backyard before setting up camp. In his debut picture book, Cadow borrows familiar elements, but what feels fresh here is the child’s reason for leaving. Instead of sibling rivalry or the struggle to be heard, it’s young Alfie’s frustration and sorrow over his own growing up that sends him out the door. After his mother tells Alfie to part with a favorite pair of outgrown sneakers, he explodes, announces his departure plans, and assembles his supplies. His gentle, understanding mother helps and even tucks an imaginary hug into his bag. Alone in the backyard, Alfie slowly accepts that his shoes need to go, and in a warm conclusion, finds a new home for them. Young children will easily recognize Alfie’s frustrated feelings of powerlessness, as well as his fears of independence. Castillo’s expressive illustrations sensitively reinforce this tender, reassuring story’s elemental emotions.
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