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

Wednesday 7 September 2016

Review: Wild Animals of the North

Sigh.

That is all.

But seriously--sigh. Thank you, Dieter Braun and Flying Eye Books, for creating such heart-thumping pleasure in this absolutely stunning book.

Covering animals of the Northern Hemisphere, across three regions--North America, Europe and Asia--we are taken deep into forests, dropped onto mountain tops, plunged into streams, flung high into the sky and even dunked in the ocean to meet all manner of creatures, from orcas to buffalo.

Pages vary between single and double-page spreads, and most entries have a pocket of text featuring facts about each animal. An index at the back shows each one in image, along with their scientific names.

This is a lustrous book of high page-count (144 pages), a cloth-bound cover and truly breathtaking illustration on uncoated paper. Braun's use of colour, texture and viewpoint is masterful, and his use of colour and line is a joy. Many animals are drawn from varying viewpoint, and the movement and [oftentimes] humour will loved by all ages. You WILL sigh.

A must-peruse for anyone interested in layout, design and graphic illustration, this is a priceless addition to both schools and libraries.

Stay tuned for Wild Animals of the South, coming soon. I am already waiting at the bookshop door--step out of my way!

Title: Wild Animals of the North
Author/Illustrator: Dieter Braun
Publisher: Flying Eye Books, $39.99
Publication Date: 1 July 2016
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9781909263963
For ages: 7+
Type: Picture Book, Non-Fiction