Will’s Adventure to the Candy Mountain

"Follows a young boy as he embarks on a magical journey to Candy Ville. During his travels, he discovers how being a good and respectful person can really pay off."

- Foreword Reviews

"Dr. Gerry Haller's picture book story, Will's Adventure to the Candy Mountain, is an entertaining story for young readers.... The story is sweet (not candy sweet) and simple, but the message is clear: life is full of sweet offerings, but friendship and kindness are more important than sweet treats. One has to always be courteous. Beautifully told and presented."

- Emily-Jane Hills Orford, Readers' Favorite

"Gerry Haller's gentle tale is inspired by stories she told to her grandson. Her vivid descriptions of Candy Mountain's "gumdrops of many colors, candy canes, gingerbread men and women all over the branches of the tree" will charm young readers. Cho's colorful, dreamy paintings of giant lollipop trees and ice cream-coated mountaintops complement the story. Adults will appreciate that the book celebrates and rewards good behavior.... Full of wonder but lacking tension, the narrative is a pleasant read-aloud. Placid and relaxing, Will's ramble through Candy Mountain is sure to inspire sweet dreams. This relaxing journey through a land of treats is a pleasant low-key bedtime story for young children."

- BookLife Review

"A story that uses timely topics, up-to-date story concepts, and creates an integration of the child and the reader to go on a journey together. The story takes us on an adventure that lightens our senses with the words and beautiful artwork. A story that creates a new experience with magic, dreams, and wonderment. To learn compassion from a child's point of view also allows the parent, grandparent, or reader to also explore how they too can become more compassionate. What a wonderful engagement of souls."

- Dr. Jeanette Gallagher, ND Blogspot Radio

"The full-page illustrations by YM Cho are colorful and fun. Children will love looking at the pages. I enjoyed counting the numerous kinds of candies and saw all my favorites pictured there. My favorite things were the lessons the story cleverly taught. When Will gets on the train, he immediately finds another boy, named Quinn, sitting alone. Will introduces himself, and the pair become new friends. The children are well-mannered and courteous, always saying please and thanking the gingerbread people for their help. The train conductor tells the children they must return to the train when it blows its whistle. Will and Quinn rush back from their adventures, not wanting to be late. Also, only good children are allowed to pass through Candy Mountain's gate. Friendship, politeness, punctuality, and exemplary behavior are all valuable lessons for children to learn."

- OnlineBookClub.org

"Gifted educator and author Dr. Gerry Haller presents a delicious and wholesome fantasy story that will touch the hearts of readers of all ages in her new children's picture book Will's Adventure to the Candy Mountain. More than just a sweet experience, the entertaining story also instills the importance of being a good and kind person, as well as the benefits that can be gained with it."

- Motherhood-Moment.blogspot.com, Book Nook

"Readers will be asking for seconds (of reading the book again, that is) after they finish this charming story and will be reminded that good things come to those who are respectful and considerate."

- Groovin Moms