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

Tuesday 5 January 2016

Review: The First Slodge

This is one of those picture books that makes me feel giddy and inspired. It's a delightful mix of whimsical, quirky, clever and ethereal.

The First Slodge, written by Jeanne Willis and illustrated by Jenni Desmond, is the story of – you guessed it – the very first ever Slodge.

As such, The First Slodge has the privilege of being the first and only to witness sunrises, eat fruit, sleep and more. She is The First Slodge but, as it turns out, she is not the only Slodge.

When The First Slodge and The Second Slodge come across each other, they must learn and negotiate where they fit in a world where they must now share resources.

This book is gorgeous and I adore Jenni Desmond's illustrations. They truly encapsulate the heart of Willis' words and bring them to life. Also, I'm a diehard fan of whitespace in picture books and Desmond makes great use of this. The cover alone makes me go 'ooooooh'.

Title: The First Slodge
Author: Jeanne Willis
Illustrator: Jenni Desmond
Publisher: Little Tiger Press, $16.95 RRP
Publication Date: 1 March 2015
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781848690394
For ages: 4 - 8
Type: Picture Book