

I loved how clearly and compassionately Ursu depicts him. Seeing the story through Oscar’s eyes is a powerful way to develop empathy in the reader. But in his world, there is no name for this, and he feels like the only one. To the adult reader, and perhaps some kids, he is clearly autistic, perhaps savant.

Oscar works for the one true magician sorting herbs and tending the cats. She takes elements and themes from the story of that wooden boy and weaves them into a fantastic tapestry that speaks to very real issues.

You may have noticed the nod to Pinocchio in the title of The Real Boy.
