I’ve an Uncle Ivan (Ban Sanders, Thames & Hudson)

This book introduces each member of a large family as, one by one, they make their way towards the town square. As the readers progresses through the story they encounter 14 different modes of transport; some are successful at arriving at their desired destination, others are less efficient but rather eccentric. Hidden clues throughout the text alert readers to the climax of the book: the common destination. The rhyming text is easy to read and flows at an engaging pace. The language is simple and to the point, revealing individual aspects of each family member’s character. The illustrations are in muted colours in the style of the 1950s and offer further clues to the reason for all this travel. For added interest, there is a tipped-in page with a 3D paper craft exercise at the back of the book.

Margaret Hamilton is a former children’s book publisher. She now provides freelance publishing services and runs Pinerolo, the Children’s Book Cottage in Blackheath, NSW

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Category: Reviews