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

Saturday 8 June 2013

Review: What's Wrong with the Wobbegong

Speaking of 'what's wrong' - is it wrong to start showing a little favouritism when it comes to authors and illustrators? I'm TRYING to be objective here. I really am. But Phillip Gwynne's books are really, really starting to override my well-developed diplomacy.

He's a clever, clever man.

I love this book. There, I said it. Who wouldn't love a wobbegong in Speedos with a Euro beach towel and a retro radio? Who wouldn't love a nosey-parker crab, a sticky-beak stingray and gossiping clam in board shorts?

Who wouldn't love text that lingers on the tongue and makes you smile and smack of 1960s picture book classics?

When a whale in a frock, an octopus family and a seabird selling ice cream join in the gossiping tirade about the wobbegong and all his perceived faults - 'he's pale, he just lies there, he doesn't eat a thing...' - we know something's gotta give.

No spoiler alert here.

Funny, dry, fabulous, What's Wrong with the Wobbegong is one of illustrator Gregory Rogers' last picture books and is a true treasure to behold, after his recent, tragic passing. The combination of Gwynne and Rogers in this book is talent personified, and this is a must-own picture book for anyone who loves - picture books.

Title: What's Wrong with the Wobbegong
Author: Phillip Gwynne
Illustrator: Gregory Rogers
Publisher: Little Hare, $24.95 RRP
Publication Date: 1 June 2013
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9781921714962
For ages:  5 - 10
Type: Picture Book