Sunday Skating (Andrea Rowe, illus by Hannah Sommerville, HGCP)

This picture book is as warm and tender as a sunset glow upon a band of friends. Award-winning author and illustrator duo Andrea Rowe and Hannah Sommerville follow the triumph of Jetty Jumping with their equally enchanting picture book for early childhood readers, Sunday Skating. Evocative, lyrical prose links effortlessly with the refreshing seaside atmosphere in a story that captures the true essences of camaraderie, courage and self-belief. Clancy keeps his skateboard tucked firmly under his arm while his friends spend their Sunday confidently gliding through the stretching streets. Swooshing through town, down laneways, past chip shops and through tunnels, the girls encourage Clancy to ‘Go for it!’, but not until the day is ending does this beginner finally take his first leap of bravery—and it’s a team effort. Literary nuances—presented through rolling text and exquisite watercolour, gouache and digital illustrations in warm primary and secondary colours—skate-dance together with energy and charisma. From dawn to dusk, sequential action shots mixed with double-page spreads perfectly play out like a film. Sunday Skating encapsulates beauty, nostalgia and playfulness for lovers of skating, and for those willing to try. Just like good friends and the power of courage, this book will pick you up when you fall.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Romi Sharp is a picture book writer and digital marketer for children’s authors and publishers. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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Category: Reviews