Tag Archives: Children’s literature
Gilgamesh The Hero by Geraldine McCaugheran
This is a perfect example of why I find these young adult illustrated readers a great way to explore myths and the power of story. You get a great story with powerful and evocative language, wonderful illustrations and an accessible introduction to a timeless tale. What’s not to like? Continue reading
Alice In Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, Lisbeth Zwerger (illustrator)
Captivated by the illustrations I was pulled into the story again. The illustrations are both wonderful accents to the story but also offer thought provoking art along the way. They are not intrusive nor distracting but they do help the reader to think anew about the story and the characters. Continue reading
Posted in Reviews
Tagged Alice in Wonderland, Children's literature, Fiction, illustration, John Tenniel, Lewis Carroll, Lisbeth Zwerger
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The Magician’s Elephant by Kate DiCamillo
DiCamillo’s simple yet poetic prose creates this atmosphere and fills the story with interesting characters who all play a role in the adventure. And despite knowing from very early on that this story is likely to have a happy ending you want to keep reading to find out exactly how each characters story plays out. There is a rhythm and flow that draws you forward despite much suspense or sense of danger. You are drawn forward by the character’s personality, history and emotions. Continue reading
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Tagged Amazon Kindle, Children's literature, Fairy tale, Fiction, Kate DiCamillo
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Are All the Giants Dead? by Mary Norton
It really is a simple tale but one where you enjoy the journey as much as the destination. The allusions to fairy tales, the way the characters interact, the descriptions of the magical world and the language its inhabitants use, and of course the great illustrations all make this short story enjoyable. Continue reading
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Tagged Brian Froud, Children's fantasy, Children's literature, Fairy tale, Folklore, Mary Norton
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The Merry Pranks of Till Eulenspiegel by Heinz Janisch , Lisbeth Zwerger (Illustrator) , Anthea Bell (Translator)
I will be honest: I bought this one mostly for the art. I have a growing collection of folk tales and storybooks for children but I am not sure my kids would enjoy this one. It is an interesting reference point for German folkore but it is mostly the art of Zwerger that drew me to the book. Continue reading
Posted in Reviews
Tagged Anthea Bell, Children's literature, Folklore, Heinz Janisch, Lisbeth Zwerger, Till Eulenspiegel
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