We used to love reading this in our family, as the protagonist shares the same christian name as our daughter. And both girls have a tendency for magiWe used to love reading this in our family, as the protagonist shares the same christian name as our daughter. And both girls have a tendency for magic....more
Zeraffa Giraffa chronicles the 1820s journey of a giraffe intended as a gift for the King of France from the Pasha of Egypt, and it's a stunning pictuZeraffa Giraffa chronicles the 1820s journey of a giraffe intended as a gift for the King of France from the Pasha of Egypt, and it's a stunning picture book for anyone who enjoys creative non-fiction in this format. There are glimpses of the African plains as well as lush views of Egypt along the Nile aboard a felucca though more of the journey is overland through France where this event clearly caused a stir. I love the spread of Zeraffa on the Champs Elysee and it's amazing to think this journey occured without misadventure. There is even a page about the impact of la Girafe on Parisian culture such as the fashion for long eyelashes and giraffe styled hedging. This is a beautifully designed and well written story of friendship, good will and connection between France and Africa. ...more
My Two Blankets is a recent award winner in Australia, which portrays a young girl's inner conflict after leaving her country, due to war. She likens My Two Blankets is a recent award winner in Australia, which portrays a young girl's inner conflict after leaving her country, due to war. She likens her new world, in her new country, to a cold waterfall full of harsh, strange sounds and her former world to a soft and secure warm blanket. As she builds trust with another child, her identity grows and she weaves herself a second blanket. I am always interested in books that attempt to explain complex situations to children. This one does it simply with real compassion. I can see why it would be selected for merit. ...more
From classic novels to contemporary fiction, many English writers paint a bleak picture of school life there, with boarding schools (except maybe HogwFrom classic novels to contemporary fiction, many English writers paint a bleak picture of school life there, with boarding schools (except maybe Hogwarts) fairing poorly indeed. Grey and miserable, Leewood School for girls in London, is where heroine Will finds herself, after being evicted from her beloved and idyllic African farm life. Here she faces all manner of challenges and judgement. Generally compelling and enjoyable, I'm a little confused about the intended audience and not sure whether this was meant for a young audience or more mature readers.