Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for this colourful and vibrant story. I feel like all reviews of this story should be set to rollicking carnival music. Music to make you dance and celebrate life.
Man-Man is so excited to dance in the Notting Hill carnival but there are a few things taking that excitement away. Firstly his mum is really ill and he wants her to see him dance. The second thing is the arrival of his strict grandmother who doesn’t like the music, dance or celebrations.
During the carnival Man-Man makes a cry for help and this is answered by the Queen of Revels. She shows him the Tree of Memories where people have their dreams held as well as their sadness and truths. He realises the complicated history of people across time and believes this is what is stopping his mother from getting well.
While this story is mesmerising, the wonderfully vivid illustrations really transport you to this world. Bright, bold colours and interpretations of dance and time are shared throughout the entire book.
This is a joy to read and truly helps readers see the impact history can have and the importance of seeing all cultures represented in the stories we have today.
A beautiful book for KS2!
My Shelves Are Full 