Hardback illustrated fiction books are fast becoming a favourite style of book for me. I have always been drawn to picture books and illustration and I find these bridge the gap perfectly between picture books and fully fledged chapter books. Check out the four below and think of who you might gift them to this holiday season!
Beanie the Bansheenie by Eoin Colfer, Illustrated by Steve McCarthy, Published by Walker Books
This is a remarkable story, one that made me smile. Beanie the bansheenie never got to bond properly with her human so doesn’t know when to howl to predict her death. Beanie lives with atom fish and they teach her to love and be loved, which Beanie then uses to protect Rose and her family. It’s a rather lovely take on the legend of the banshee from Ireland. When Beanie saves Rose, they form their bond and Beanie vows to protect Rose. While the story is amazing, I think the illustrations are really very special. Dark, rich and with clever use of lines, shapes and colours readers will be enthralled. I think there is such a strong message of the power of love coming through this tale and I could happily read this over and over again.
Anya’s Quest by Jasbinder Bilan, Illustrated by Jane Ray, Published by Walker Books
This beautiful story is an ode to children and the small changes they can make to repair our world. Told almost as a legend, a goddess appears to Anya and Mahi, taking them on a journey to discover the wounds of the world- from polluted waters to greedy cities. The girls must learn to use their spirit song to connect to their animal, protect them and do what they can to share their voice, determination and power with other children around the world. I was so struck by this wondrous tale and so heartened that small changes can make big differences. Let’s not underestimate the power of today’s children. The illustrations are stunning- colourful and mythical, really brining this adventure to life.
When the Stammer came to Stay by Maggie O’Farrell, Illustrated by Daniela Jaglenka Terrazzini, Published by Walker Books
This begins as a story about two sisters, Min and Bea, as different as sisters could be. One messy, one neat, one chatty, one quiet. When Min develops a stammer, she is devastated and retreats into herself. It is Bea who helps her to find out more and to do some research. However, it is one of the adults in their lives who teaches them both an incredible and invaluable lesson. “Struggles of our own can make us aware of what other people go through”. Min and Bea both have struggles to admit to and work with and by reading their story, it allows the reader to develop empathy, understanding and acceptance of the struggles we all encounter. Stunning illustrations really highlight the sisters world, the development of the stammer and the love they have for each other. Such an incredible story.
The Forest of a Thousand Eyes by Frances Hardinge, illustrated by Emily Gravett, Published by Macmillan
This is such an intriguing story. Set in a world where the forest has taken over most of the land and where humans live in settlements high on walls or towers, a young girl finds herself tricked and nearly killed by stranger to her part of the wall. Determination courses through her to reclaim what was taken from her. Her adventure and journey will be plagued by peril and uncertainty, not to mention meeting new people and communities, expanding her awareness of their world and encountering the depths of the forest. What will she bring back, if she makes it? I found this story and the unbelievable illustrations to be truly compelling and thought-provoking. It is one not to be missed!
I am a primary school teacher, turned librarian. I am Children’s Librarian for Suffolk Libraries, a job I adore!
I read constantly and have more books than bookshelves, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
I celebrate reading every day at work I am currently Vice Chair on the National Executive Committee for the Federation of Children’s Book Groups!
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My Shelves Are Full 