*The Three Lads and the Lizard King*
I wrote this story for my son and thought others would enjoy it. As of right now, it truly represents the best distillation of what I’ve learned so far. If I had to pick one book for my legacy, it would be this one. Click here to order.
Here is the blurb at Amazon:
Three friends find themselves magically transported to a land where they learn of a prophecy–about them! The lads must use their newfound gifts of power in their battle against the Lizard King.
And here’s the wonderful review by G. Morin (which I promise I didn’t ask him to write):
Full disclosure: I’m already an admirer of Robert Murphy’s professional writing (economics) – he writes in a clear and engaging style and can make a subject as mundane as economics actually interesting and entertaining. So I was curious about his foray into the world of children’s literature. I must say I was pleasantly surprised. Not that I expected Bob to do a poor job but I’m thinking “It’s a story for 8-10 year olds… how interesting can it be for a 40 something year old?” Thankfully my skepticism was shattered. Each chapter was a page turner. As each chapter ended I had no choice but to proceed to the next. I literally read it cover to cover in one sitting. There is no higher honor for an author then to write a book that is so engaging that the reader simply cannot set it aside. Bob achieve’s that with this book
For those of you who are fans of his economic works you won’t be disappointed either. He manages to weave some basic lessons about money, value, trade, etc without hitting the reader over the head with it. I think most children will absorb the lesson without even realizing it it was in any way educational (it’s also a lesson most adults need as well). But it is only a part of the overall story, I don’t want to give the impression the whole thing is just some econ lesson in disguise. Overall it has everything a good children’s book requires: relatable characters, adventure, exploration, overcoming challenges and some good old fashion fantasy. Highly recommended. You won’t be disappointed.