As a child I dreamed of setting off into the big, wide world to explore. I've always wanted to see what there was to be seen. I couldn't wait to be grown up so that I could finally just go.
Small rhinoceros has the very same dream; she wants to see the world. She patiently waits until the time is right, and as you can see by the glorious cover designed by Leila Rudge, she succeeds.
She sailed on...through the woolly wild of winter and the smooth sweep of summer...to faraway lands and beyond.
On her return home, her family and friends are happy to see her, but unimpressed by her tales...all except for one quiet voice who asks,
'Did you get lost?'
'Many times.'
'And was it...wonderful?'
'Oh yes!'
Oh yes indeed!
With themes of independence and freedom, pushing the boundaries of what is considered 'normal' and daring to be different to fulfil your heart's desire, Once Upon A Small Rhinoceros will charm you and inspire you in equal measure.
Meg McKinlay has written some of my favourite books for teens and children, including the CBCA award winning A Single Stone, No Bears and Ten Tiny Things. She has a wonderful blog post describing her creative journey with this particular story here.
Leila Rudge adds collage elements to her pencil, paint and paper 'hand snipped' illustrations. She has written and illustrated the wonderful CBCA Notable book Ted, the very popular CBCA shortlisted book, Gary as well as No Bears with McKinlay.
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What a lovely looking book!
ReplyDeleteIt's my CBCA pick for 2018 :-)
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