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

Friday 21 April 2017

Review: Road Trip

If only I had a dollar for every time I'd heard (or asked) the question, 'Are we there yet?'

I'm pretty sure Danny Parker, like most parents, has heard it a few times, too. Together, he and Nathaniel Eckstrom have created the perfect antidote.

Here, father and son embark on, what the son seems to think, is a long and tedious journey. But the father is having a wonderful time, making pit stops, playing games and noticing all the little things along the way.

The journey is about an hour, but 'how long is an hour?' the son wants to know. Alternating between the son's relentless questions and the father's attempts to distract, the reader learns a little something about time. Yes, an hour may seem like forever when you're waiting for something special. But, the truth is, it's not that long when you're spending time with someone you love.

The story is told in a delightful rhyme that recalls that old family favourite, The Berenstain Bears. But it is also peppered with the sweet, human details that Parker is renowned for. An hour can be an ice cream by the shore, a board game with Nanny, or a game of hide-and-seek, the father tells his son. 

These fragments of time spent with family and friends are beautifully captured in Eckstrom's rich and vibrant illustrations. His use of colour and texture lends a retro appeal that will conjure endless road trips for people of all ages.

Through the poignant and comedic touches from both author and illustrator, we learn that time really does fly when you're having fun.

Title: Road Trip
Author: Danny Parker
Illustrator: Nathaniel Eckstrom
Publisher: Hardie Grant Egmont, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 February 2017
Format: Hard Cover
ISBN: 9781760127404
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture Book