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

Tuesday 16 June 2020

Review: Willow The Armadillo

We all have a favourite character in a book who inspires us to be a better person.

Willow the armadillo has always dreamed of being that person. The hero who saves the day, to be the star in her very own picture book.

An avid reader, Willow thinks she knows what it takes to be the star. 

Enrolling in classes at the Picture Book Academy she learns new skills under the legendary Madame Tigress.

However, being the star is hard work and is not as easy as it looks. Willow successfully graduates from the academy, but her friends are more successful than her. What is she doing wrong?

Willow tries to be what other people want her to be. Attending the picture book auditions, Willow has high hopes, but they leave her feeling disheartened. She tries out for everything from being the bedtime hero to reimagining her image to be Arma Dynamo.

With each rejection, Willow’s dreams seem to be further out of reach and unachievable.

Feeling low, Willow retreats to the one place she feels is her sanctuary, the local library. Surrounded by shelves displaying picture book covers featuring her successful classmates does nothing to make her feel more positive.

Settling in to read, the library lights suddenly go out and everyone is scared, except for Willow. Tucked into her pocket is her trusty flashlight. Will Willow finally be the hero who saves the day or will she make a surprise discovery and be true to herself?

Author Marilou Reeder allows us to make mistakes when striving for success. Daring to dream is not only brave but it is something we all do. It gives us hope, direction and inspires us to discover ourselves. This feel good story celebrates passion, dreams and success.

Title: Willow The Armadillo
Author: Marilou Reeder
Illustrator: Dave Mottram
Publisher: Abrams Books, $21.99
Publication Date: 28 April 2020
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9781419741050
For ages: 4 - 6
Type: Picture Books