A Delightful Tale of an unlikely Friendship. A book of inspiration and hope when loneliness won't leave you alone.
Jack is 12 years old. His mother recently passed away and his father is too busy lost in his work to give Jack the attention he needs. In an effort to overcome his loneliness, Jack fanaticizes day after day, imaging the family life he once had. Meanwhile, an intellegent little orange gazes down on Jack wishing she could be his friend. Olivia, the little orange, yearns for arms and legs. She wants to be free from her tree and able to move about and play. When the oranges ripen, Jack picks Olivia (not realizing she is special) from her tree and takes her into his home where the adventures begin. Jack's father, Mr. Zimp, is a scientist and as fate would have it, orples are the result of Mr. Zimp's experiments. Between two orples, Jack, Mr. Zimp, the cat, and Mrs. Mouse, there is never a dull moment. The final question is; Will Jack set the escaped orples free or give them to back to Mr. Zimp to experiment on?
This is a lively little story bubbling with excitement throughout. It holds subtle lessons in love,loyalty, and friendship, as well as ends on a happy note. The book is left open for sequels to allow for future orple adventures.
Excerpt
"Dad," Jack called, "I have some dessert for you. May I bring it down?"
"Just set it on the counter,Son. I'll eat it later; now run on back upstairs. I'm busy," Mr. Zimp mumbled,never even looking up. He was very involved in his experiment.
"What are you inventing?" Jack curiously asked.
Mr. Zimp looked at Jack impatiently. "If you must know, I am trying to create a solution that will keep fruit from spoiling for months without refrigeration. Please leave me to my work so I can finish up."
"Please let me watch. I'll be quiet."
"Go away, Jack. I can't concentrate with you in the room. I'll share it with you when it is complete.
Sadly,slowly, Jack climbed the stairs. His shoulders drooped as he held back the tears. He tried to get his father's attention so many times. And each time, he was rejected. Maybe tomorrow he would succeed in getting his father's attention.