When you want to read a book filled with courage and whimsy, you most likely think of a fantasy. The last thing to cross your mind would be a book about an eight-year-old boy and his imaginary friend. However, I have never experienced such immense amounts of courage and whimsy in a book since I first read through Harry Potter in middle school.
The Synopsis
Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend by Matthew Dicks follows the story of Max and his imaginary friend Budo. Budo is actually the narrator of our story. Budo is a special imaginary friend because his creator is a special kid. Max, unlike the other kids in his class, has autism. This makes his social skills different from the other kids, which in turn makes it easier for him to relate to Budo rather than his peers.
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Budo brings us through the story and teaches the reader all about the life of imaginary friends. Imaginary friends are dependent on the imagination of their creator, which is obvious to us. What might not be too obvious is if we don’t imagine ears, the imaginary friend won’t be able to hear, or no mouth means they can’t talk. There are plenty of stipulations on imaginary friends, dependent on the creator. Budo is lucky because Max imagined him to be nearly human.
Throughout the beginning of the story, Budo walks us through Max’s peculiarities, such as the food he eats, the people he talks to, what he’s scared of, and what makes him get “stuck”. Budo also informs the reader of what he doesn’t like, mostly imaginary friends fading (when the creator no longer believes in the imaginary friend) and Max’s para educator Mrs. Patterson. As the tale continues, Budo’s dislike in Mrs. Patterson is justified.
Mrs. Patterson’s relationship with Max is the main conflict of the story. While Max does not understand the danger he is in, Budo can only do so much to help him. With the little ability Budo has, he must do everything he can to save Max. However, everything he can might include his own fading.
Likes
This is a story about courage when courage is hard to come by. It tells about unexpected hero’s finding purpose where they once only saw loss. There is loss and triumph all tied together. You will be hoping for two endings at the same time, knowing there is only one right one.
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Overall, the narration of this book is extremely unique. I don’t remember any imaginary friend growing up but Budo fascinates me with his little details. Budo’s perspective offers insight on the life of imaginary friends as well as the influence they likely hold over the lives of children. That is to say, if you think imaginary friends could really influence the decision making of a kid.
Another unique aspect is watching Max grow and gain courage through the eyes of Budo. Max has to make big decisions that would be difficult for typically developing children. For a kid who hates making decisions and going out of routine, Max develops more courage and strength than the reader can imagine.
Dicks’ does an incredible job storytelling. His character development is well thought out and naturally progressing rather than sudden and unrealistic. He brings the reader along for the journey. Not only is his storytelling fantastic, but he is able to demonstrate that through an imaginary friend as a narrator.
Dislikes
The plot, while steady, seemed lacking in some areas. Some of the places Budo visits in his journey to save Max seem unnecessary at the moment. While the reason makes some sense as the story progresses, it does seem like a stretch. The side stories where enjoyable, but the point they serve in the overall plot is not very clear.
Recommendations
Overall, this book was an easy read. Dicks fills the story with the perfect mix of joy and frustration, hoping and mourning. I think most people can find some enjoyment in it. I highly recommend this book for people with wild imaginations or people who want something different from the typical narrator.
Great read! 8/10
As always, happy reading!