'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Tuesday 1 May 2012

Review: What is this Thing Called Love?

I'm one happy gal when a new Davide Cali book comes out and thankfully, I have Wilkins Farago to keep me in supply.

In this latest offering, Cali once again touches the heart strings whilst simultaneously gadding about with romping humour - and a cleverly honed level of perception that really gives the brain a workout.

Little Emma is a bit boggled about love. She doesn't understand. What does it look like? What colour is it? Is it sweet or savoury? Is it just for grown-ups?

Emma asks her mum, dad, grandma and grandad, but each provide her varying response. Mum's love is all blooming in the garden. Dad's is caught inside a whopping soccer goal. Grandma's has been baked into all manner of sweet goods and Grandad's is pressed into the shiny metal of vintage cars.

How can love be so subjective? Emma is confused.

As the curious young girl sets about to learn more about love, we continue to discover the reasonings on this heartfelt topic, through the eyes of our four protagonists - and we realise that love is almost as indefinable as the people who fall into its clutches.

Can Emma discover what love is all about?

Striking, truly funny and gorgeous illustrations by the talented Cantone round out yet another Cali winner.

Title: What is this Thing Called Love?
Author: Davide Cali
Illustrator: Anna Laura Cantone
Publisher: Wilkins Farago, $24.99
Publication Date: 31 May 2010
ISBN: 9780980607079
Format: Hard cover
For ages: 4 - 12
Type: Picture Book