Devin Fan

A tiny mouse/elephant hybrid, Barnabus was one of Perfect Pets' failed projects: just not good enough to sell to consumers, as a genetically engineered "animal" companion. Living in a tiny bell jar in a laboratory far underground, Barnabus dreamed of the wider world, which he knew about thanks to his friend, Pip the cockroach. Deciding to escape, rather than be "recycled," he and his friends made a break for it, finding their way to the surface after many adventures, eventually settling in a show more park, and always sticking together...

I absolutely adore the work of co-authors, co-illustrators and brothers Terry and Eric Fan, and have read their gorgeous picture-books - The Night Gardener, The Antlered Ship, Ocean Meets Sky, etc. - with great pleasure. Consequently, I was very excited to learn of The Barnabus Project, which brings in a third Fan brother, Devin. I found the story here entertaining and ultimately heartwarming, reminded at least in part of one of my favorite children's novels, Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, about a group of rats (and one mouse) who also escape a laboratory. I appreciated the theme here of preferring freedom and authenticity to some kind of artificial perfection, and I loved the friendship and cooperation amongst the failed projects, as they make their escape. The artwork, needless to say, was absolutely beautiful, and I enjoyed perusing these pages, poring over everything from the decorative endpapers to the detailed scenes with all the projects on the shelf, in their bell jars. At seventy-two pages, this is a very long picture-book, but it isn't particularly text-dense, so it doesn't feel that long. Recommended to fellow Fan Brothers fans, and to picture-book readers who enjoy fantastical tales and/or gorgeous illustrations. show less

What an adorable, heartwarming read! From the very first page, Barnaby completely charmed me. His wide-eyed curiosity and gentle courage were so endearing, and I found myself grinning the whole way through. The illustrations are whimsical and full of life, and the message about embracing who you are (even if you're a little "different") came through in the sweetest way.

Thank you for creating such a joyful, uplifting story. It’s a book I’ll be recommending to parents, teachers, and anyone show more who loves a cozy, feel-good read with a big heart. Barnaby definitely unboxed a smile in me. 💛📖✨ show less

The Fan Brothers do it again! Barnaby Unboxed is a witty and heartfelt story about self-discovery and acceptance, brought to life through lively illustrations that capture Barnaby’s emotions and adventures. The drawings add humor and warmth, making the story engaging for young readers. Though occasionally predictable, its charm, clever dialogue, and uplifting message inspire children to embrace their uniqueness with confidence.

I received this book as part of the LibraryThings Earlier show more Reviewer program. show less

The text and illustrations carry the reader away into a fantasy world and suspenseful story that celebrates uniqueness and freedom. Barnabus lives in a bell jar deep in a lab with other “failed” perfect pet projects. Barnabus wonders about the world outside his jar and once he realizes he may be “recycled” into a perfect pet, he worries about losing his uniqueness and just wants to be himself. So, he decides it's time for an escape. With his little trunk and help from others, show more Barnabus and the “failed” pets set out to find freedom where they are accepted for who they are.

While some reviews suggested this book was too dark, I found the illustrations to compliment the surreal/fantasy feel of the setting. Give children some credit, not all readers may understand the message with one read, but this is a book is to be read again and again. show less