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A finely woven novel exploring grief, hope and friendship, Storm Horse by Nick Garlick moved me to tears, even though I started reading it with a great sense of wariness, my inner cynic poised to be proved right with the slightest hiccup in plot, writing or characterization.
Having recently lost his parents, a young boy can’t believe he’ll ever feel at ease with the relatives who have agreed to take responsibility for him. But all that changes when he makes friends with a horse. A growing sense of trust and (self) belief enables him to find a place where he’s happy to belong, even though in the process he comes face to face with some of his greatest fears, loss and sadness.
This page-turner, with dramatic, breath-taking scenes worthy of the vast gloomy shore skies under which it is set made me nervous before I turned the first page; Storm Horse is set on the Frisian islands off the north coast of the Netherlands and is partly inspired by a very emotive true life story about a lifeboat disaster that devastated an island community.
Surrounded by huge and exhilaratingly beautiful sandy beaches, the lifeboat on Ameland was traditionally launched by horses who pulled the boat over the sand and then into the tide, enabling launches where no pier existed. But in 1979 eight horses drowned during a lifeboat launch and in this small island community their terrible loss was felt deeply and powerfully and is still remembered with great sorrow, but also pride, for launching lifeboats with horses was something unique to this particular community, long after other Frisian islands had given up on this tradition.
As it happens I know Ameland and this story rather well (the photo above shows M and J visiting the grave and memorial to the eight horses back in 2012, whilst the photos below show a re-enactment I once saw of how the lifeboat used to be launched), and so when I found out about a novel set on the Frisian islands, centered on horses and lifeboat rescues I was both curious and anxious.
Starting a novel when you already have an emotional investment in it is a scary thing. What if it doesn’t live up to your hopes? What if you feel it betrays the beauty / the sorrow / the wonder you feel about certain events or places or times?
But I took the plunge and turned the first page and…
…Well here’s why I think you might enjoy this book as much as I did, even if you’ve never heard of the Frisian islands and have not one ounce of hope at stake when you come across it in your local bookshop or library:
Storm Horse is brilliantly plotted with chapter endings which demand you turn the page and read just a bit more. I actually read this book in a single sitting and couldn’t believe how the time and pages had whizzed by.
Garlick’s characterization is lovely, authentic and satisfying. From the most wonderful Aunt Elly, who exhibits the kindness, compassion and wisdom that we all wish we had, to the silent and imposing (and ultimately big hearted) Uncle Andries, via uncannily spot-on observations about life as a seven year old who wants to be a part of everything, to the thoughtfulness of old and lame Mr Bouten, the cast of this story is rich and not without humour.
Bereavement and how people cope with loss is explored in several different strands, each offering a different light and reflection on the grieving process and being able to eventually see light at the end of a sorrowful tunnel.
Quietly and powerfully Storm Horse gives its readers a sense that they can find a way to hold on to what matters to them, through perseverance, through patience, through resourcefulness and generosity. What a great gift from a book, don’t you think?
This is no literal re-telling of the terrible, heart-breaking events of the 14th of August 1979; Garlick sets his story on an imaginary island (though Ameland is briefly mentioned), and yet all the details ring beautifully true. The challenges of island life are not shied away from, but read this moving, convincing, vivid novel and I think you may nevertheless fall in love.
Now… what will my lifeboat-mad, Dutch husband who spent every childhood summer on Ameland think of this book? Well, somehow I’m going to have to find the time to read it aloud to him and the girls as I now know I needn’t have worried: Storm Horse is a cracker.
Disclosure: I was sent a free review copy of this book by the publisher.
I would expect to find this book in the part of the bookshop/library aimed at 8/9 – 12/13 year olds.
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This is such a beautiful post, Zoe. Thanks so much, yet again. I’m looking forward to see it arrive in Sydney.
Are you aware of ‘Flight,’ written by Nadia Wheatley and illustrated my the superbly gifted Armin Greber? Apologies if you’ve written about it! It is a very moving depiction of the plight of refugees, without taking a ‘sledgehammer’ approach.
Zoe said, on 8/31/2015 10:23:00 PM
Thanks Simon, no I didn’t know about this new book though I’ve just read a bit more about it (http://www.readings.com.au/products/19429014/flight). I very much like Greber’s earlier work addressing issues around immigration/migration/refugees. Thank you for the tip off!
Whether planning a day at the beach or just back from some fun in the sun, these beach-theme picture books will be a wonderful addition to your summertime fun. Suitable for toddlers, preschool age children, kindergarten and older, these stories address important themes like fear of the water and getting outside one’s comfort zone. Whenever possible, it is very valuable to have children read books that match their experiences. These stories are perfect for introducing new concepts and extending learning. Have fun!
All You Need for a Beach written by Alice Shertle and illustrated by Barbara Lavallee Picture book about a day at the beach published by Harcourt, Inc.
A companion book to All You Need for a Snowman, this is an exuberant celebration of a group of children, playing together in sand and water. Bright, cheerful colours and a happy theme of exploration and cooperation highlight this picture book for toddlers and preschool-age children. Illustrations depict a racially diverse group of children.
Best suited to very young children, At the Beach is a lovely introduction to the joys of spending a day picnicking, playing in the sand, looking for treasures and swimming. Simple, clear text matches the colorful illustrations and creates an opportunity for learning new vocabulary.
The main characters are a Caucasian girl and her mother however the illustrations depict diverse skin tones among those playing at the shoreline.
Curious George Goes to the Beach based on the original character created by Margaret and H.A. Rey, illustrated in the style of H.A. Rey by Vipah Interactive Picture book about a day at the beach published by HMH Books for Young Readers
Fans of Curious George will not be disappointed with this fun story about a day at the beach. George and his friend Betsy enjoy playing at the sandy beach, making friends and feeding the sea gulls. Betsy’s reluctance to go into the water could be an opportunity to talk about fear of new experiences.
Betsy, her grandmother and the man with the yellow hat Caucasian however the illustrations depict diverse skin tones among those at the beach.
Duck and Goose Go to the Beach written and illustrated by Tad Hills Picture book about friends who visit the beach published by Schwartz & Wade Books
Duck is keen for adventure while Goose would much rather stay in familiar surroundings so it is only not surprising that Goose is not keen to go for a hike. The two friends leave their familiar meadow and eventually arrive at the beach. It is loud and wet and very, very sandy. Vibrant illustrations are a highlight of this engaging story about two friends leaving their comfort zone, enjoying a day out together and then returning to the comfort of home. Duck and Goose Go to the Beach is highly recommended for preschool- age children.
Scaredy Squirrel at the Beach written and illustrated by Melanie Watt Beach theme picture book published by Kids Can Press
Scaredy Orville Squirrel whose initials are S.O.S. is an immensely popular character in an equally popular series of picture books.
In Scaredy Squirrel at the Beach Scaredy the worrywart is very careful to avoid any sort of real or imagined danger. Rather than encounter pirates, jellyfish, seagulls and sea monsters, he decides to create his very own private backyard beach paradise. After carefully constructing his safe haven, Scaredy realizes that, although his beach “look” is great – his backyard just doesn’t sound like the real thing. The only solution is “Operation Seashell” – a carefully planned and executed mission in search of a seashell that will provide crystal clear ocean sound. Featuring detailed descriptions of Scaredy’s beachware and plans for his mission, Scaredy Squirrel at the Beach will be enjoyed best independently or in a small group or one-on-one read-aloud setting. Best-suited to children five and up.
Stella Star of the Sea written and illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay Picture book about a summer day at the seashore published by Groundwood Books
In this endearing series of picture books, we meet confident and worldly Stella and her much less self-assured younger brother Sam. When the two children visit the seaside on a shimmery summer day, Sam is filled with questions that suggest not only curiosity but also a bit of fear,
“Do you think there are sharks in the sea?” asked Sam. “Have you ever seen one?” “Just a little one,” said Stella, “with an eyepatch. Are you coming, Sam?” “Not just this minute,” said Sam.
Gorgeous illustrations together with text that beautifully depicts the two siblings will have young children longing to visit the seashore and discover all the wonders of a leisurely summer day filled with digging in the sand, fishing, beach combing and, eventually, a swim.
Tip Tap Went the Crab written and illustrated by Tim Hopgood Counting book about sea creatures
Tip Tap Went the Crab features bright and colorful illustrations along with repetitious text that includes alliteration and onomatopoeia. When a crab decides to leave her small rock pool to explore the ocean she encounters one seagull, two sea lions and three starfish.
A great choice for toddlers and preschoolers, Tip Tap Went the Crab provides a great reminder that books for this age group can (and should) include rich language and fun, detailed and appealing illustrations. It is well-suited for a classroom or library read-aloud session.
Perhaps the most famous example of this for a certain generation are the Harry Potter novels; many a child (and a fair few adults) grew up in parallel with the Harry Potter books as they each came out over a 10 year period. Other series which I know have done something similar for kids more recently are the Clarice Bean (and Ruby Redfort) stories by Lauren Child, the Claude stories by Alex T. Smith, the Captain Flinn books Giles Andreae and Russell Ayto and also the Albie books created by Caryl Hart and Ed Eaves. For my kids the Findus and Pettson books by Sven Nordqvist and the Eddie books by Sarah Garland have done something similar.
Eddie’s Garden was first published in 2004, the year M (now 10) was born. I wish I remembered how we discovered it because it is one of those books which almost defines my early parenthood and time with my first child. The slightly chaotic home felt oh-so-recognisable. That Eddie’s messy but warm home was full of kindness and playfulness was something I aspired to as I tried to work out how to be a half-way ok parent. 2007 saw the arrival of Eddie’s Kitchen, followed by Eddie’s Toolbox in 2010, each book being greeted with glee by us all in the family.
Eddie and his family are off to the seaside for a short camping holiday. He has fun helping to set up their pitch, building a fire, tying guy ropes and making it homely. He even builds his own play tent out of branches and a blanket. As happens so often on family camping trips, the kids make friends with other children nearby, but when a pet dog goes missing, it looks like Eddie and his new friend Max could end up in trouble. Thanks, however, to Eddie’s ingenuity all ends well with new friendships formed and sausages eaten around the campfire.
Like all the Eddie stories, this one mixes very practical information – elements almost of non-fiction – with adventures any child could recognize from their own life. The mixture of fact (both in the illustrations and often in endnotes at the back of the book), with hugely reassuring and yet realistic family life experiences is a winning formula. Eddie’s Tent includes great advice on building campfires, cooking on them as well as how to tie useful knots. In many respects I think it pairs brilliantly with Mick Manning and Brita Granström’s (non-fiction title) Wild Adventures. What it offers, however, over and above anything any non-fiction book can do, is a cast of characters you care about, who make you smile, who you’re only too glad you know.
There’s lovable Lily, Eddie’s mischievous little sister, their Mum who hangs out in joggers and baggy jumpers and is immensely practical as well as kind (Hurrah for a fictional mum who can build and fix things as well as nurture and play with her kids.) By this fourth book, they’re joined by Eddie’s mum’s new partner Tom, and his lovely daughter Tilly (another Hurrah – for a mixed race family that’s just part of the mix). Down to earth, generous, relaxed and yet lively, they make a super family that’s a delight to read about.
Eddie’s Tent is a marvellous continuation of Eddie’s story, once again perfectly pitching learning hand-on skills with fun storytelling. Fingers crossed another Eddie story is in the pipeline – even if my kids are in their teens when it appears, I know we’ll be all reading it together!
*****************
Now, can you believe it – as a family we’ve barely ever camped. Our only time under canvas was a few years back in a rather luxurious yurt with futons and duvets and good coffee on tap nearby but with the arrival of Eddie’s Tent I was DETERMINED to give more traditional camping a go with the girls. They were extremely excited at the prospect, and with the wonderful support of their Grandparents we were able to spend a night camping last last month.
We pitched our tent where X marked the spot.
We did a bit of on location reading.
We made damper bread.
We baked cake in hollowed out orange skins (ready mix cake mixture poured into scooped out orange halves, re-assembled, wrapped in foil and then baked in the ashes for 20 minutes or so).
We had rather a lot of fun.
The three of us squeezed into the tent and our sleep was sweet (but short). Would we do it all again? Most definitely. Roll on the summer holidays I say!
Tent and camping themed music for a playlist could include:
Over the last couple of year’s I’ve read quite a lot about how children’s books with a very specific cultural setting are not favoured by publishers because it is hard to sell rights widely; publishers are keen for “universal” stories which translate (literally and figuratively) well across borders and languages.
Whilst I understand publishers’ drive to maximise sales, I think a great deal is lost if we ignore stories boldly and vividly set in specific and identifiable locations and cultures. Indeed, considering the current drive for increasing diversity in children’s books, I would argue that books which are culture specific have a vital role to play.
And of course, a great book will be “universal” whether or not it is set in a specific time, location or country; enduring stories speak to that which we share whatever our differences.
I have been a fan of Mairi Hedderwick’s books for as long as I can remember. She writes and illustrates rural Scottish island life in a magical way. She captures truths like poetry can in her watercolours of Hebridean life, whilst her stories are full of acute observations about family life that’s more or less the same wherever you are in the world, exploring issues such as sibling rivalry and intergenerational relationships.
The Katie Morag Treasury by Mairi Hedderwick is a glorious book, bringing together a mix of the most popular previously published Katie Morag books and new stories and illustrations first heard and seen on episodes of the highly acclaimed BBC Katie Morag TV show. It really is a treasury, with a range of witty and poignant stories, illustrated in ink and watercolour in a way that invisibly and movingly marries romance and realism.
For kids listening to these stories Katie Morag’s tales act as mirrors; yes she may live in a community vastly unlike the one the young reader or listener lives in, but that only makes it more interesting and reassuring to read that Katie Morag has the same sort of worries, plays the same sorts of games and quarrels with her parents just like they do. Thoughtfulness is a consistent thread in all these stories, and Katie Morag herself is a terrific role model; full of strength and imagination she is not afraid to explore, to try new things, or to be kind.
This is a keeper of a book, one which works well both as a read-aloud, or for children who can read themselves. Indeed the lovely hardback binding makes this ideal for older readers who might not want to be seen reading picture books any more.
Last year when we were holiday in Scotland we collected a stash of shells and sea glass and re-reading these fabulous Katie Morag stories inspired us to get our jars of them out of our natural history museum, and play with them using a home-made light box.
I borrowed one of our large plastic boxes which we normally store lego in, lined it with white tissue paper, and then put a load of fairy lights inside it. With the fairy lights turned on, and all the other lights turned off and curtains drawn we entered something of a soothing world where the girls could then make patterns with the shells and sea glass, with soft light shining through.
If you don’t have any sea glass, you could do this activity with florists’ glass (vase) pebbles instead, making light imbued mosaics.
Music which goes really well with Katie Morag stories (though maybe not with the light box activity as much of it will get you up and dancing) includes:
My favourite radio programme – available worldwide online – Travelling Folk. This is BBC Radio Scotland’s flagship folk programme and it’s full of treats each week.
Arrangements of songs like you’ve never heard before from Billy McIntyre and his All Star Ceilidh Band, who I’d love to hear live because they are just WAY out there…. Pop! goes the Ceilidh is a hysterical album with covers of lots of pop classics (eg Living on a Prayer, Robbie William’s Angels, Billy Idol’s White Wedding) redone with fiddle, accordion and more. It will put a crazy smile on your face.
Anything by Skippinish but especially Land below the Waves that always gives me goosebumps:
I found this an interesting read as the book in my current blogpost, Imani’s Moon’, is set in Africa. Reading this story has given us a glimpse into a completely different country and culture which is not only fascinating for my daughter but for me as well. We also love the Anna Hibiscus books, the fact that they are set in a country that we aren’t familiar with enriches and extends our knowledge and reading experience.
We love the Katie Morag books and I agree with you that regardless of the setting they introduce experiences that are familiar to many children and have a strong emphasis on family life. This looks like a beautiful treasury for a Christmas present
Zoe said, on 11/13/2014 1:25:00 AM
Catherine – yes it would make a very special Christmas present
se7en said, on 11/13/2014 4:23:00 AM
Oh we love and adore Katie Morag… Love… all the way from sunny South Africa. I think we relate to it so well because we also live in a seaside town… so there is lots in common. But a big part of Katie’s appeal is that she does live on a far side of the world in a distant and remote place, everything is so very different. So much the same, we have very similar grannies (!!!) and yet so much is different – my kids have never worn gumboots… and Katie almost always does. I could write all day, we love and adore Katie and hope this collection comes to a publisher near us really soon!!!
I started this post hoping to be able to report on any kind of literary celebration that was to take place/has already taken place at some point throughout the month of July. Having missed both Read Across America Day (though respects should be paid to the late, great Dr. Seuss every day of every month of every year), as well as National Poetry Month (April, for those who are so inclined), I was disappointed to find that there wasn’t any nationally ordained celebration of books during the month of July. Sadly, the only celebrations that I could find for July were ones of national independence (fun fact: Canada Day is July 1st, and Bastille Day (France) is the 14th), food (Blueberries and Ice Cream, the foods of summer) and good manners (National Cell Phone Courtesy Month: take note, dinner-table occupants). To some of these I say, frankly but fondly, bah humbug.
In opposition, I propose that we use this month to appreciate all of the books that make us feel warm and welcome, like nice weather or a day at the beach. I propose that we use some of our down-time to experience the books, whether newly purchased or plucked from a dusty shelf, that stick out in our minds and make us feel inspired, moved, or fulfilled. For the parents of young children, these are the days that count; fill them with memories and love and beautiful words and stories. Pick up a book and hunker down with your little one, whether inside or outside, under the sun or by a fire, and help them as they embark on adventures that, while imaginary, are everlastingly valuable.
Here are some summer stories, courtesy of Star Bright, that would make a great start!
Harriet Can Carry It by Kirk Jay Mueller Art by Sarah Vonthron-Laver
Follow Harriet the Kangaroo as she goes on an adventure to the beach with her little Joey. Looking for some time off after a long week at work, Harriet packs her little boy in her humongous pouch and sets off looking for some rest and relaxation. But appearances by her many marsupial neighbors make Harriet's journey both difficult and troubling, as Harriet tries to accommodate all of their requests to carry their things until finally....
Beach Socks
by Michael J. Daley
Art by Estelle Corke
No more shoes! No more socks! shouts the young boy in Beach Socks, a book by Michael J. Daley and Estelle Corke that mixes beautiful illustrations and charming descriptions in a delightful story of one child's day at the beach.
4 Stars Drummer Boy of John John Mark Greenwood Frané Lessac Lee and Low Books Pages: 32 Ages: 4+ Jacket: Carnival is coming and the villagers of John John, Trinidad, are getting ready to jump up and celebrate with music dancing, and a parade. Best of all, the Roti King has promised free rotis—tasty friend [...]
How wonderful it is to be welcoming back author/illustrator Clara Vulliamy with this month’s mini-books to inspire children (young and old) to create their own stories!
This month’s theme, to go with yesterday’s book review round up, is the seaside. Clara and I hope that, armed with top book tips, crafts and our mini books, you and your kids will be inspired to get storytelling and playing together – do let us know how you get on!
2 new and exclusive minibooks from Clara Vulliamy said, on 6/12/2012 12:50:00 AM
[...] 2 new and exclusive minibooks from Clara Vulliamy to inspire seaside storytelling!. Share this:FacebookLinkedInEmailTwitterPrintLike this:LikeBe the first to like this [...]
Sticks are super… but how to broaden our horizons when we’re out exploring? What else could we and the kids look for? How do we learn to identify what we find? Today I’ve once again got one fiction picture book and one non-fiction book that go together really well, and which could help us answer these questions.
Having packed a rucksack full of sandwiches they launch themselves into the sort of knowing pretend play that my girls adore, imagining that ordinary objects in the garden are actually terrifying and dangerous safari animals. There is the croco-logus emerging from the pond, the snake-pipe slithering across the lawn and the hippo-potta-compost at the end of the vegetable patch, and young and old delight in scaring and being scared by the fates that might befall them if they were to be captured by these wild animals.
The adrenalin filled safari is going thrillingly well until the clothes-lion roars and sends Lollipop and her grandfather rushing back to the safely of their home. With all the familiar, delicious relief that readers and listeners feel with We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury, Lollipop and her Grandfather do reach their house just in time, but then comes an unexpected twist – will they actually be safer inside?
Lollipop and Grandpa’s Back Garden Safari is great fun! All about entering into the spirit of things, relishing imaginative play, safely being frightened, and the sheer enjoyment that’s possible when playing outside, this book has become pretty popular in our home. This book really invites you to play the story, to play by the book. My kids think it’s such a hoot when they “see” threatening animals (the apple tree, the water butt, the bamboo sticks) and I act terrified. All powerful M and J have conjured up these creatures which have the power to scare me – the girls just can’t get enough of this!
Cate James‘ textured illustrations have a child-like quality to them, with lots of scribbles, and people with straight arms and legs rather like stick men. For a book which is all about really entering the mind of a young child, this style of illustration works really well.
Pretend safaris (also possible indoors!) are fab! And they complement “real” safaris too. Not, unfortunately to see lions and tigers, of which there are very few roaming the streets in central England, but to explore the animals and natural environments which are on our doorstep.
Oh lovely post!!! These books look wonderful!!! We are huge Mick Manning fans and will have to look out for this one!!! And I love the glass jar collection – inspired!!! off to explore STEM Friday!!! se7en recently posted..Se7en Discover the Great Artists: Leonardo Da Vinci
Things-I-have-learned-as-a-parent number 359: A walk for the sheer fun of it, in our local park or nature reserve, is never complete without a stick.
The sooner the girls can find one which meets their ideals for the day the happier they are. A big one to lean on, a little one to become a wand, a bendy one to be a flag: a stick is an essential acquisition on any sort of exploration.
Image: Daniel Baker
And so it was with some eagerness that I accepted The Stick Book by Jo Schofield and Fiona Danks for review. Would the girls and I get new ideas and be inspired in new ways? Would it encourage us out on those days we were suffering from inertia? Would it make me look with refreshed, delighted eyes at the pile of sticks by our back door that grows and grows and normally has me rolling my eyes in slight desperation?
The Stick Book contains 70 different ideas for using sticks in outdoor play. There are 8 themed chapters, for example one on “Stick games” (including pick up sticks, capture the flag, and tracking with stick), one on “Adventure sticks” (including building dens, swords, catapults and spear throwers) and on on “Watery sticks” (including pooh sticks, making a mini raft and measuring the depth of a stream). Each activity is accompanied by a photograph and tips or brief instructions on the activity in question.
Essentially, this is a craft book, not unlike those you might get from the library packed with Easter crafts or Egyptian crafts. It’s just that this time the unifying theme is outdoor play with sticks. And like many craft books, with the advent of the internet, and great sites like Let the Children Play, the ideas you find within the pages are probably available for free somewhere online, and many of them are so simple (such as playing pooh sticks) that you might wonder if this really is a book worth buying.
It’s definitely worth seeking out. By bringing all the ideas together in one place it IS stimulating. It has motivated the girls and me get our shoes on and go walking and looking for good sticks. M in particular has enjoyed reading the book herself, and choosing an activity she’d like to do. I particularly like the fact that all the people who feature in this book’s photographs are kids. There’s not an adult to be seen in this idyllic, natural landscape full of potential for adventure.
As children increasingly lose contact with outdoor play, and adults become less confident and comfortable with it (after all, isn’t it easier to put on a DVD?), this book will hopefully be a useful reminder of how simple and enjoyable it is to play outdoors. All you need is a stick and a little bit of inspiration.
4 Comments on All you need is a stick, last added: 4/30/2012
In the grip of Harry Potter fever Bill recently forked out his own money on one of their branded plastic wands. He has discovered though that it is MUCH less satisfying than the bounty of free wands to be scavenged in the garden/woods. They have better magic (of course). I like the fact that a stick wand can accomplish so much more and be much more creatively used than the stick guns/swords that we had plenty of before. Polly recently posted..Buying comics
Helen Dineen said, on 4/30/2012 1:00:00 AM
I love the idea of this book, it’ll be going on the wish list! And am thinking of gifting the two books together as a birthday present, think it would be a lovely bundle.
choxbox said, on 4/30/2012 3:06:00 AM
The books sound wonderful!
Was going to suggest Stickman but you obviously know of it
This also brings to my mind a vivid image of the time we were in the Heath – it had just rained and my daughter and her friends took turns in stirring this big puddle of muck with a long stick. They played on for almost two hours – best example of why we dont really need plastic toys!
Zoe said, on 4/30/2012 3:31:00 AM
Hi Polly,
I’m completely with you. And the feel of a wooden wand is also so lovely.
Helen, Yes! I think they would make an absolutely super birthday bundle
Aah Choxbox, sticks and MUD – a very good combination! Zoe recently posted..All you need is a stick
So I’m back online! And I’ve so much to tell you about…
So yes, I was offline because I was away visiting family in the Netherlands. This is where we were for most of the time:
This is the haul of books I brought back:
My favourite book of all those I brought back is Overzee (literally “Oversea”) by Annemarie van Haeringen, Tonke Dragt, and Sjoerd Kuyper. It’s a collection of three very short, modern myths, each linked by the sea. The first is about a pelican who rescues a boy lost in a storm, the second is about Noah’s ark, unicorns and narwhals, and the third is about the source of the sea – where indeed does it begin? Each story is magical and word perfect. You won’t be able to finish this book without your heart contracting a little at its verbal and visual beauty. I do hope that one day it will be translated into English. The stories are timeless.
On holiday M fell deeply in love with the Belgian comic series Suske and Wiske (variously translated in to English as Bob and Bobette, Wanda and Willy and, most recently Spike and Suzy). This strip was created by Willy Vandersteen and first published in 1945 (there are now over 300 books!). It features two children who get up to all sorts of adventures, some fantasy, some historical, some science fiction, and has a look not dissimilar to the most famous comic from Belgium – Tintin.
Whilst away I read a brilliant Dutch children’s book Crusade in Jea
and welcome back! Feeling rather sad about my inability to read Dutch but will definitely seek out the Toby books. Have you read your ‘Hunger Games’ purchase yet? I’m just speeding through them and feeling full of ambivalence (whilst being unable to stop turning the pages). Look forward to hearing your thoughts. Polly recently posted..Holiday diversions part 1
Damyanti said, on 4/16/2012 11:24:00 AM
I spy a Barbapapa I enjoyed reading the Toby books, nearly picked them up at a charity shop today, but decided I’d wait a few years till I can actually read them to son, may have enough space on our book shelves by then. Am sure your girls will have great fun discovering the little folk in the trees Damyanti recently posted..Seven Stories Museum
Zoe said, on 4/16/2012 12:34:00 PM
Hi Polly, no, Hunger games should be next on my list (I just finished a book last night, but it too had lots of violence in it, so am wondering whether to allow myself something a little sweeter in between!) I’ll keep you posted… Zoe recently posted..The Past
Zoe said, on 4/16/2012 12:36:00 PM
Hi Damyanti,Yes, we didn’t come home barbapapa-less…. Reading between the lines it seems like the Toby books didn’t impress you as much as they did me…(?) – if I saw copies in a 2nd hand book shop I’d snap them up to give to friends. If I’m right, do let me know more about what you though of the Toby books. Zoe recently posted..The Past
What with the turning of the calendar to July and the activity books I’ve been researching, Summer is definitely in the air. And nothing sings summertime more than a trip to the seaside!
Today’s books is perfect for anyone, adult or child, dreaming of a day on the beach. Traction Man and the Beach Odyssey, the latest book (published today!) from Mini Grey, follows the adventures of superhero Traction Man and his fearless, loyal sidekick, Scrubbing Brush.
Traction Man, the favourite toy of a young boy, is taken on holiday to the seaside where a series of perilous adventures befall him; he is swept out to sea, then washed up in a dank cave, found by another child on the beach, and nearly lost in a tremendous earthquake when the sandcastle he is inhabiting is enthusiastically attacked by a dog.
This story will thrill any child who brings their toys to life and creates adventures, journeys and real-life personas for them. Like the two earlier Traction Man stories (Traction Man is Here and Traction Man Meets Turbodog), this too is pacey, creating just the right amount of manageable anxiety that dissolves in wonderful relief with the resolution of the story. It’s packed with humour and provides parents with plenty of perfect opportunities for silly voices and even singing theme music from thrillers should they really get into the swing of it (I like to read it to my kids with a Sean Connery-esque accent!)
Image reproduced with permission. Inside spread of Traction Man and the Beach Odyssey. Click for large scale image.
Appropriately enough, some of the illustrations recall Marvel comics. They’re eyecatching and reward repeated readings for all the added details tucked away in them. If you’re looking for a superhero story that’s got all the action, excitement and adventure you could possibly want, but without any violence or malevolence, the Traction Man stories are for you. Particularly loved by the boys I’ve been reading to in the year 1 classes at M’s school, the girls too have been asking each week for another Traction Man story.
Those who already love Traction Man will not be disappointed with this new story (let’s hope there are more in the future!), whilst those who are new to the delights of this superhero and his sidekick will be able to adore this book in its own right, before (I’m confident) wanting to track down the two earlier stories.
Now, where we live is just about the furthest you can get from the seaside in
3 Comments on A landlocked trip to the seaside, last added: 7/7/2011
I so want a Scrubbing Brush like that … a chips wrapped in a Guardian newspaper! Can I come live in your house? :0)
Great review!
Zoe said, on 7/7/2011 10:54:00 AM
Oh Library Mice, you’re welcome here any time! Scrubbing Brush cost us all of £1.25 at a local hardware store. He is already much loved (and won’t be doing any floor scrubbing!)
Andi said, on 7/7/2011 6:39:00 PM
I think your backyard beach is brilliant!
We were just at the beach this evening. We are opposite to you in that when thinking about getting to the beach, our only question is “which one?” for there are many – river and ocean – a very short distance from here. And for the true beach experience, “dulse,” our local seaweed, is in season now and available just about everywhere (although I have never developed a taste for it!) As for books, “East to the Sea” by Heidi Jardine Stoddart was written by a local author who as a child visited here in the summer, and the book is about those childhood summers spent by the sea. Andi recently posted..Garden Harvest Cooking – Creamy Yogurt Salad Dressing
This is just a short update about where Sister Jo and I are on the road.
We left Paso Robles at 6:15am Tues. Morning. Our planned stop at the Aquarium in Monterrey had to be shelved. We could barely see the sign for the Hwy 101 exit for Monterrey because of the thick fog. Everything west of us was totally socked in and didn’t clear until late that day.
We went into San Francisco and down to the Park surrounding The Presidio. The fog had moved off somewhat, leaving us with a clearing sky that allowed for photos and some sights to see. Of course, the park also had heavy construction going on which eliminated much of the area that could be viewed, driven, or parked in. That meant that parking was at a premium and we couldn’t find a slot anywhere. We did manage a few good shots, though, which kept it from being a total loss.
From SF we moved across the GG Bridge and into Marin County. We wanted to take Hwy. 1 so that we could do the coastal tour. It had been over twenty years for each of us since traveling that way.
Small landslides kept movement to a creep. Okay, that and the curvy quality of the road itself. We did enjoy ourselves. Stinson Beach was a pleasure and very active. Northward we arrived at Bodega Bay where the movie “The Birds” was filmed. We just couldn’t locate the church, however. We did have a marvelous pizza there before moving on.
Since then we’ve camped at Trinidad, viewed more of the coastal beaches and wound our way through trees that became seedlings nearly 1000 years ago. Lunch in Crescent city, just south of the Oregon coast allows us time to download pics, catch up on these short updates, and decompress a bit.
Writing will come later. Keeping all the impressions and notes straight becomes the difficult part of my activity. My aim is to be able to make at least one update a week between here and Montana.
I invite all to come and watch the progression. Take care, all, and I hope you make plans for your own adventures.
A bientot,
Claudsy
1 Comments on Update on the Road, last added: 4/24/2011
Stinson Beach was cold when we went. It was weird walking the beach all bundled up in coats and long pants. The Red Woods were mind blowing and smelled so good. Felt ancient. Haven’t been to the aquarium or Alcatraz, but have taken a ferry under the Golden Gate Bridge. Had a seagull poop on me at the Wharf and had the most awesome fresh crab legs there too. :0). ‘Course it helps that both of my sisters lived in the area! Love reading your travel blog!
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The Day The World Went Away
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Belfast, seen from the bridge.
Ahh, Belfast. Not as wonderful as it could have been, but not as bad as I'd feared. We started the day out bright and early, getting on the road by 9-ish (Which isn't really that early for us, but for a road trip it was early - we always seem to have myriad little tasks those mornings that keep
Poor Ludo. I feel bad for the guy. I'm sure he'll be up and running around in no time though.<br /><br />Other than Ludo, I'm glad to hear the trip was a good one. I hope the next one is much better!
It sounds like a great place. I would love to explore the East coast some day. I hope Ludo get better quickly...poor guy. Thanks for sharing all the pictures. I love them!
With J’s current fish obsession we’re on the look out for books about fish at the moment. One Smart Fish by Chris Wormell was a chance find when we were visiting the Natural History Museum a few weeks back – it’s not a book I had previously heard of – but it’s now definitely one of J’s favourites so far this year.
One Smart Fish tells the story of a crucial evolutionary step – how many millions of years ago some fish left the sea and began life on land. It’s a big topic but through the use of stunning illustrations and perfectly pitched text, liberally sprinkled with humour, Wormell has written the ideal book for introducing the idea of evolution to young children.
Many pages are densely packed with a range of fish of all shapes, sizes, colours and texture, whilst the penultimate double page spread has a hugely detailed expanse of creatures surging out across the land showing the evolution from fish to – eventually – human beings. Like the earlier pictures of fish we can’t help pouring over the illustrations and playing “I spy” – just like we do when reading some other much enjoyed books of ours – Anno’s Journey or The History Puzzle.
One Smart Fish doesn’t attempt to deal with the science or evidence for evolution but it does introduce the concept of evolution exceptionally well. Both M and J find it funny yet brilliant that they are evolved from fish – this idea has really caught their imagination and M in particular has wanted to find out more. That Wormell’s book has so engaged my two kids and got them asking lots of questions is a testament to its brilliance.
Inspired by the range of beautiful and colourful fish in Wormell’s book we set about creating our own ocean full of fish. First I cut out lots of fish shapes from clear plastic containers I’ve been saving (strawberry punnets, for example). The girls used permanent markers (sharpies) to colour in and decorate the fish.
I love the fish tank idea – I want to make one never mind the kids!
“Swimmy” is a classic fish story that I love and “I’m the Biggest Thing in the Ocean” has been so well-read in my classroom that I think I need a new copy as the one I have is almost beyond repair. I guess a giant squid doesn’t really count as a fish, but it is a good book nonetheless.
choxbox said, on 6/23/2010 9:48:00 PM
What a coincidence – we were reading another Chris Wormell book just yesterday – George, the Dragon and the Princess
Love your projects around books you read. You have boundless energy!
We had borrowed it from our libe when my older child was 5 and she like it so much that we eventually bought our own copy. Is a big hit with the current 5 yr old now.
Zoe @ Playing by the book said, on 6/23/2010 11:08:00 PM
Hi Andi, Yes, my girls love Swimmy, but I don’t know I’m the Biggest thing in the ocean – but it’s in our library system and I’ve just reserved it Thanks for the suggestion.
Hi Choxbox, I WISH i did have boundless energy… Thanks for the link to the Harris book. It is NOT in our library system But I’ll keep a note of it. BTW the weather is still looking good!
Today sees the launch of Audiosynced – a monthly roundup of blogosphere posts about audiobooks which has been set up by Kelly of Stacked and Abby (the) Librarian and today I’m very pleased to be taking part alongside them.
Audiobooks play a hugely important role in our home – a day without one is certainly unusual. As well as providing the sheer pleasure of listening to a good story, they also allow us to introduce more Dutch into the home – an additional input alongside their (wonderful) Dad. All in all we love audiobooks and have so many that it made choosing my first one to review an enjoyable but interesting challenge.
Photo: Playful Librarian
After much deliberation I decided to review one of our very favourite audiobooks of all time – recordings of Katie Morag and the Two Grandmothers and Katie Morag Delivers the Mail, both by Mairi Hedderwick (published 1986, Whigmaleene Story Cassettes, Collins Audio). This audiobook does everything I think an audiobook can and should do – it is a perfect example of what this format can bring to a great story, which is why I wanted to review it. But, and it’s a big “but”, it doesn’t seem to be available anywhere to buy, nor have I been able to find any copies in worldcat.org (a portal to many library catalogues around the world).
I don’t like to review stories which you then can’t get hold of yourself – but this is such a fantastic recording that I nevertheless had to go with it. It definitely deserves to go on your search list, just in case you strike lucky in a library or second hand book sale. So if you’ll forgive me for tempting you with the (possibly) unobtainable here’s why all of us at Playing by the book think this is an exceptional audiobook.
Photo: Professor P
The Katie Morag books by Mairi Hedderwick are all set on a remote (fictional) Scottish island called Struay. The stories are about family, friends, and life in a small, isolated community, and although we’ve thoroughly enjoyed every Katie Morag story we’ve ever read, it’s the illustrations which really steal the show. I cannot think of a more perfect rendition of life on a Scottish island (and we’ve been to quite a few, even honeymooning on one) &nd
3 Comments on Sounds of the seashore, last added: 3/1/2010
I love the seashell roller. And thank you for the audio book resources. But I have a basic question – what do your children do when listening to the audiobook? Do they just sit and listen? I’ve tried audiobooks with my son (4y.o.)and he is just not interested, even if I have a copy of the book to follow.
Ashley said, on 3/1/2010 2:35:00 AM
The Katie Morag stories were always a favourite with my children too and especially with my niece, at one point she demanded her name be changed to Katie Morag. She was just thrilled to meet the author in person and have her books signed a few years ago.
Audio books are something I haven’t tried yet but would love to start collecting, particularly useful on car journeys I think instead of just having the radio on.
Zoe @ Playing by the book said, on 3/1/2010 4:00:00 AM
Hi Catherine,
I don’t think we have ever sat still to listen to an audiobook. We tend to put one on and then get on with some other playing or cooking or painting. The audiobook appears to be on “in the background” but it’s clear that my girls are actually listening to it. M now likes to have one on when she’s playing by herself in her room (a lifesaver during the afternoon when my younger one is still napping). Sometime I find M lying on the floor simply listening to the story but she also likes to play with her lego or other toys at the same time.
Hi Ashley,
Yeah, they are fantastic for car journeys. In fact as we quite often do long train journeys we’re also thinking of getting M an mp3 player so she can listen whilst we’re travelling and the whole train carriage doesn’t have to listen to The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe (her current favourite)
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A finely woven novel exploring grief, hope and friendship, Storm Horse by Nick Garlick moved me to tears, even though I started reading it with a great sense of wariness, my inner cynic poised to be proved right with the slightest hiccup in plot, writing or characterization.
11 years after Eddie first appeared, this year sees a new story about him: 
On holiday M fell deeply in love with the Belgian comic series 
I enjoyed reading the Toby books, nearly picked them up at a charity shop today, but decided I’d wait a few years till I can actually read them to son, may have enough space on our book shelves by then. Am sure your girls will have great fun discovering the little folk in the trees
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But I’ll keep a note of it. BTW the weather is still looking good!
This is such a beautiful post, Zoe. Thanks so much, yet again. I’m looking forward to see it arrive in Sydney.
Are you aware of ‘Flight,’ written by Nadia Wheatley and illustrated my the superbly gifted Armin Greber? Apologies if you’ve written about it! It is a very moving depiction of the plight of refugees, without taking a ‘sledgehammer’ approach.
Thanks Simon, no I didn’t know about this new book though I’ve just read a bit more about it (http://www.readings.com.au/products/19429014/flight). I very much like Greber’s earlier work addressing issues around immigration/migration/refugees. Thank you for the tip off!