Growing up has never been easy, but in today's rapidly changing world, it is harder than ever for budding teenagers to figure out where they belong. When Erik Hare decided to offer some guidance for these young adults, he drew on the influence of Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching and infused the ancient wisdom within his book, "Downriver." "Downriver," enjoyed by adults as well, is the story of the transformational journey of Popey, a three-inch-tall creature known as a Hopneg. When thoughtless humans unknowingly destroy Popey's home, he is bent on revenge, but ends up with something far more valuable. Popey's defiant determination takes him down a path of discovery, where he gains knowledge through two of life's greatest teachers: experience and observation.

Downriver

 

“Downriver” begins with the race of the Hopnegs, diminutive 3-inch tall people, who like Humans are intelligent but fear Human machines as “demons”.  One of these “demons” lives up to its reputation when it runs over and completely destroys the house of the Hopneg, Popey.  He barely escapes with his life in his pajamas, and the lack of possessions turns him into a Punk, or a Hopneg without the magic of ownership.  Seeking to warn the people of his nearby village, he travels to the village to deliver his message to its leader, Rouger.  After delivering his message, Rouger, decides based on the wisdom of the Book, to move the entire village to a different location.  Popey and another Hopneg, Rod, rally the town to destroy the “demon” by putting grass into its exhaust.  But this fails as the Humans simply remove the grass.  Having failed, the Hopnegs realize that they must go upriver, away from the “Giants”.  Popey, however, decides to go downriver in his quest to discover knowledge of the Humans and their mysterious magic.  Not far into Popey’s trail, he is met by a Traveler called Shajee who is experienced in the way of the world and the Humans.  For instance, Shajee not only knows things about the physical Human world and how to get around in it, he also has an understanding of Human psychology which, in my opinion, is in a way somewhat better than our understanding.  As they journey through the Human cities, Popey and you, the reader, get a new perspective on these “Giants”, or Humans who do everything bigger than themselves. 

“Downriver” is for ages 12 and up, especially those who liked the “Borrowers” book series.  Erik Hare’s writing style is new and unique, and refreshingly different.  He gives vivid descriptions of certain aspects of both the physical and personal persuasion that set the mood in a way unlike any other.  Gradually, I became engrossed in the story.  “Downriver” is an interesting, funny and deep book that will be enjoyed by many.