This book reminds me a bit of the old Boys Own or Girls Own annuals of the past, but with a much more modern take and not quite so dense in the amount of information. It is a treasury of poems, stories and activities.
On one page we do magical wake-up stretches. Dragon breaths, flower fairy fingers and mermaid tail wiggles included. On the next page we might read a poem about a whale. On another we will open to a beautiful spread of pages to read a short story about camping by a river catching fish, standing with our fishing line until our toes feel frozen.
Looking through this book gives you a warm feeling, and that is down to Jess Rackyleft, who again has done a stellar job, with the illustrations making the book feel welcoming to the reader. The poems and stories with the activities in between make it so interesting.
You can close The Book For Marvellous Minds and pick it up again anywhere to find something so enjoyable to read and the activities are not overly complicated and fun.
Great for holidays or anytime.
Reviewed by Merle Morcom
Age Guide 5+
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ABOUT THE AUTHORMaggie Hutchings is a counsellor, family-dispute mediator, writer and artist who spends her weekends covered in paint and scribbling lists that are never completed.
She is a famously mad aunt, nanna and mother who talks to herself out loud and falls over a lot in the garden.
Maggie writes stories with heart and soul for children and adults that encourage kindness, hope and resilience. She lives in Australia
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Jess Racklyeft is an author and illustrator based in Fitzroy, Melbourne. From her home studio, Jess creates original paintings and prints for greeting card companies and various clients. But her favourite work of all is producing children’s books!
Jess has authored and illustrated several picture books and board books and has won several awards, including a CBCA Award.
