If you’re familiar with the story, you know that Oliver Twist has a lot of sorrow, hard knocks, and yet a somewhat happy ending for Oliver. Some of the tough events include: death, drunkenness, starvation, imprisonment, poor working conditions, stealing, pickpocketing, gangs, power struggles, betrayal, murder, torment, and a villain hanging himself (albeit accidentally). Yikes!

Hats off to Joanne Mattern for tactfully handling many of the difficult topics and making them more understandable and somewhat more age appropriate for children. She sets up some of the poor working conditions of the time describing what a workhouse is and what it was like. She also interjects some narration from Wishbone the dog to lighten the mood and help younger readers gain perspective and navigate the story a bit easier.

My favorite part was when Oliver prayed for a way out (and God provided)!

I think reading this retelling of Oliver Twist could help kids develop compassion and gratitude for their living conditions. Still, parents should be aware that the story could be rather scary for a young one. The gangs, stealing, etc. Are still rather dark even with Wishbone the dog interjecting some helpful comments.

Although the reading level may be ok for early Elementary kiddos, and the dog’s commentary a bit young, the overall content is a bit too scary for early kids and I’d recommend it for at least about 3rd grade if reading alone or maybe earlier if with a parent reading along with them.