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Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend
Matthen Dicks
2012, 311 pages
Fiction
This is the story of Budo, the titular imaginary friend of 8-year-old Max, a young boy who is “on the spectrum.” Reading this book, we learn about what imaginary friends are like (each is unique, having the characteristics their human friend imagines for them), what they do (protect their friend and help them get through each day), and that all imaginary friends are invisible to all other humans, but they are visible to each other.
Imaginary friends’ lives end when their human friend no longer needs them and stops believing in them. Something bad happens to Max, and Budo must try to save him. How will Budo come up with a plan to help Max and will he succeed? What will happen if he doesn’t succeed, and what will happen if he is successful? This is the conundrum Budo faces.
What a unique and inventive way to tell a story, from the perspective of an imaginary friend. It’s interesting to hear Budo’s understanding and perspective on Max’s problems, how the adults relate to Max, and what the world of imaginary friends is like. Budo likes Max’s teacher, because even though she is very strict with the kids, the kids all know she loves them so they work very hard for her. Budo thinks one of the most important abilities a teacher can have is being able to make sure the kids know you love them. What do you think?
