Which pretty much sums up this extraordinary picture book. With no preamble, the Giant’s story begins, at the ending, with a premise that could easily reflect a reoccurring dilemma for many creators; a stymie of creative flow.
When the picture book
maker, with a strong resemblance to the author himself, experiences this impasse,
his trusty pencil inexplicably springs to life.
The
wee stub shows him her life’s journey from germinating seed to grand dame of
her forest kingdom. We are taken through life cycle after life cycle. From a
sapling’s view point to that of a towering giant’s, residence to a whole
eco-system of invertebrates, animals and birds. It is a wondrous and all-encompassing
experience to stand before this giant and gaze skyward at her unfathomable brilliance,
so strong, so assured, so steadfast.
Those familiar with the Daoist and Buddhist concepts of interconnectedness, of life entwined, will already appreciate the truly incredible worldwide root web of our ancient forests. Their abilities to communicate, protect and heal. This story embraces these understandings in rich beautiful greens, blues and browns; the ever-evolving colours of nature.
Amidst
the falling leaves and changing seasons, a wanderer regularly visits the great tree,
perhaps her closest friend and ally. But mere friendship is sometimes not enough
to halt the tide of change. Admiration alone cannot prevent destruction nor
ward off greed. The Giant is felled. Banished from her mythical forest, she is
repurposed as many things, including the bookmaker’s treasured, Aiaia
pencil.
The
bookmaker wants the story to end there, perhaps afraid that once the stub is
gone, so to will be her legacy. Yet, as with many things in Nature, endings are
merely new beginnings …
Once
I Was A Giant
is a stunning example of clear intent executed confidently with inspired craft.
Every inch of this book relays the Giant’s story, from the clothbound cover, to
the end papers and finally, the author’s note. Sworder balances light and shade,
loss and life, death and birth with all the grace and gravitas exhibited in his former works. The result is a stirring expression of hope and adoration.
Once
I Was A Giant
is more than a book about the often-deplorable actions we humans so thoughtlessly
exhibit. It is a strange and beautiful homage to the unyielding pliancy of
nature, and (the bookmaker’s) awe and love for it.
Deserving
of the highest marks and Giant-high recommendations.
Title: Once I Was A Giant
Author Illustrator: Zeno Sworder
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Australia, $29.99
Publication Date: 2 September 2025
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781760764913
For ages: 8+
Type: Picture Book