Book Nook: Travels with Sushi in the Land of the Mind

I recently had a chance to review Travels with Sushi in the Land of the Mind. With a title like that I had no idea what to expect. The book is an "atmospheric adventure" by Eduard Shyfrin which is able to introduce readers to quantum science concepts as well as morality and philosophy in the context of an adventure to another universe.

The beautiful illustrations done by Tomislav Tomic add to the story and are perfectly appropriate to the tone of the book. It's a very unique debut novel with a style of writing and storytelling unlike anything else I've ever read.

Aaron and Stella spend every summer at their grandparents’ house, playing on the beach in the day, and eating sushi at night. One evening, the children try some special sushi which transports them to an alternate universe – The Land of the Mind, a place traditionally governed by math and quantum physics, which is being taken over by evil and chaos.
With the many different areas in the Land of the Mind being ruled over by the Dark Lords of Intolerance, Fear, Pride, Indifference, Betrayal and Despair, the children are tasked with rescuing the Book of Understanding, which contains all the rules on how to live a good life.

I had a chance to interview the author as well.

Why did you decide to write this book?

Initially I conceived this book as a story for my grandchildren. Often i tell them fairy tales which i invent myself. But in each fairytale i include certain lessons from different areas of life. I am positive that this is the best way of teaching children, hence the book.

What do you hope kids will get out of this book?

This book was written in the genre of mysterious adventure which, I hope, children will enjoy.
Young readers will familiarize themself with Invisible Supreme Ruler who always helps in very difficult situations provided that on has strong spirit, never loses hope, ready to help and strive to do good. They will be immersed in the beautiful word of science. Children will learn how to cope with fear, despair, pride, how to overcome themselves and make friends. And finally how they should live and what they should do to make our world better place.

What was your favorite book as a kid?
Alice in Wonderland.

(Blogger's note: Readers will notice influences of Alice in Wonderland in this story as well.)