Charlotte Middleton wrote and illustrated this excellent little book about a guinea pig saving the dandelion from extinction and learning to love growing things.
I’m not going to analyse the book and wax lyrical about its eco-friendly theme or regurgitate the blurb. I’m just going to mention what works.
The illustrations have a sustained and original style, which is good because it helps children to immerse themselves into its unique world.
The choice of guinea-pig pants in the front and end of the book is always of interest: “which pants would you choose daddy?”
The words are easy to read and the decision not to rhyme everything (like most children’s authors feel the need to do) was a good one.
The amusing books in the library are fun for adults to find too: ‘War & Pizza’ anyone?
The double page spread of Christopher blowing the dandelion seeds works nicely.
The end is nice if not spectacular, amusing, or unexpected.
This is a book that is a pleasure to read and doesn’t try too hard. The author is wise to understand that at bedtime a gentle story can be just the ticket.
I, however, won’t be wearing pants and wellies in the garden any time soon.
Chris Mercer 