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Just Sisi Gets Two Thumbs Up
Just last week I read Just Sisi by Wendy Hartmann, illustrated buy Joan Rankin to my daughter just before bed and she has asked for it every night since. It’s such a great read I really don”t mind the fact that I’ve had to read it over and over again. The simple text together with the soft yet bright illustrations are a big part of why this book is such a winner for me (and others as you will see below). The only issue I have with the book is the soft cover, it tends to flop about as I hold it up to show my kids the illustrations. Other than that I think this is one of the books set to wins an award this year!The other example I present to you is from South Africa – JUST SISI by Wendy Hartmann, illustrated by Joan Rankin (from Human & Rousseau). This is one of the best local picture books I’ve seen for years, but let’s concentrate on the voice. It is deceptively simple, offering five little stories about a small rabbit who is quite clearly living in a bright, cheerful, modern Africa. In the final tale, she and her small brother are preparing for bed. Just listen to the text:
A kiss on the tummy.
A kiss on the toes!
A kiss on the cheek.
A kiss on the nose.
A cuddle, a hug, snuggle up tight.
Warm blanket, warm bed … and a kiss for goodnight.
Isn’t that gorgeous! What small ears will fail to be enchanted with that voice – aided, of course, by your voice. There’s no such thing as an ‘opposite’ to Salman Rushdie, but Wendy Hartmann is using simplicity instead of complexity.
I have to mention that the illustrator, Joan Rankin, is hardly a silent spectator. Her artwork is bouncing with colour, fun and homely imagination. And for a practical detail, most picture books have 36 pages. This one has over a hundred. There’s value for money in South African publishing – as well as many voices worth listening to.“Bookchat” Book of the Year 2010 is…
JUST SISI by Wendy Hartmann, illustrated by Joan Rankin
Featured as “Book of the Month” in January, this is a superb picture book, fully deserving the place of honour. (And while most picture books make do with 36 pages, this one has over a hundred. Real value for money!)Book details
- Just Sisi by Wendy Hartmann, illustrated by Joan Rankin
EAN: 9780798152204
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- Just Sisi by Wendy Hartmann, illustrated by Joan Rankin
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