So lovely
to see a Katz/Vane book in picture book form, where Vane’s brilliant
illustrations can really gallop across the page. I love the comic elements in
her work, but also her kooky style and choice of colour – the ideal palette for
the rhythmic work of Katz.
So what on
earth is No-Thanks-Hanks? Well, it is a series of nonsense tales and
poems and observations that will quite simply make kids of many ages smile,
giggle and do lots of “Muuuuum! Listen to this!”s.
Upon
opening the book, we meet two Hanks. Two Hanks who refuse to give thanks. Why?
Who knows. But Mum and Dad have had enough. “That’s enough!” they say, “If you
don’t say thanks, you don’t get stuff.” Yes, it’s really that simple. No toys,
no lollies, no food and drink. And what do you think the Hanks say??
Other short
stories and poems include Pass the Parcel, Purdy (no, she won’t pass the
parcel), Steffi Said the S Word (oops!) and my personal favourite – Whatevvvva
Trevor (yes, I have a tween in my family).
Clever,
funny, playful and brilliantly pinpointing kids at their – er… best – I say Yes-Please-Hanks!
Title: No-Thanks-Hanks
Author: Danny Katz
Illustrator:
Mitch Vane
Publisher: The Five Mile Press, $16.95
Publication
Date: 1 July 2011
ISBN: 9781742485829
Format: Hard cover
For
ages: 6 – 12
Type: Picture Book
