The Nikki Davies Calendar of Songs

Abstract

48 eye Volume 13 No 12 April 2012 A April, and spring, blossoming to life, the budding plants and emerging flowers. Sunshine and showers, the stuttering start of the cricket season. The unpredictable nature of the weather in the UK means that we could all be tucked up and sheltering from the cold, or basking in the resplendent warmth of the strengthening sun. Either way, settle down with a book, and let your imagination soar, especially when feasting on a picture book that deals with journeys, of all different varieties and on all different levels. Let these books take you somewhere different. Tattybogle by Sandra Horn and Ken Brown [£5.99 from Andersen Press; ISBN: 9781842706855] is stunningly illustrated and beautifully told, and you just cannot be surprised that this gentle story of renewal and hope was shortlisted for the Kate Greenway medal. Tattybogle is the affectionate name given to the scarecrow and protagonist in this gorgeous story. Any Wizard of Oz fans will instantly understand how this story resonates with that one – you cannot help but think of the scarecrow and the deep friendship formed with Dorothy. The rain is Tattybogle’s music and the wind his dancing partner, until one day the wind blows a gale... this is a wonderful story of hope and renewal. The Children of Hat Cottage by Elsa Beskow [£10.99 from Floris Books; ISBN: 9780863158551] uses simple, yet quirky, illustrations and words to best effect, this story is one most children will identify with because it is all about three children’s good intentions turning unintentionally into mayhem! What will their mother say when she comes home from a trip to the mainland for the day, to find mayhem instead of swept chimneys and clean, washed clothes? Perhaps though, all is not lost when a ‘Rumplestiltskin’ type garden gnome looking fellow turns up to offer a helping hand? Who am I? by Gervaise Phinn and Tony Ross [£10.99 from Andersen Press; ISBN: 9781849392884] is ideal for reading aloud. This wonderful story is the next best thing to Dear Zoo, only not quite so easy Picture books reviews by Martine Horvath