Summer 2023-24 Book Reviews with little Unity in Auckland

The Odyssey retold by Gillian Cross, illustrated by Neil Packer (Ages 9+)

We are spoilt with so many versions of The Odyssey. This one is a superb re-envisioning of the epic poem told simply and with artistic invention — perfect for kids wanting a graphic novel version or for those starting out on a Greek-myth quest. The illustrations by Neil Packer are beautifully stylised and complement the depth of the story. And what an engrossing adventure story it is, full of man-eating monsters, alluring sirens, and vengeful gods, played out over a 10-year-long journey by Odysseus returning home from the Trojan war. Settle in and get lost in this mythical tale (much like Odysseus himself at sea). - Roger

Lafcadio by Shel Silverstein (Ages 7+)

This is the book that started Shel Silverstein’s literary career in children’s books 60 years ago. An absurd tale, narrated by the lovable Uncle Shelby, of a lion who, with much practice at shooting a gun, becomes the most successful and admired of all hunters throughout the world. But at what cost? This is a fable for all ages and despite the ridiculous and sometimes tragic situations of the story is an absolute pleasure to read alone or together. Shel Silverstein’s black and white cartoon illustrations (this hardback edition has used a glorious colour illustration from the author’s archives for the book cover) have been described as “loose” and “wriggly lines” but I love their whimsy and on every page are perfect additions to the story. What a treat. - Roger

The Happy Prince and other Tales by Oscar Wilde (Ages 9+)

It doesn’t matter how old you are, Oscar Wilde’s The Happy Prince and Other Tales pierces the heart. These tales are simple but say so much — kindness, compassion, pain, sorrow, sadness, loneliness. “Swallow, swallow, little swallow”, said the Prince, is a line that will sing through my mind forever, like “Once Upon a Time” but in the style of Oscar Wilde. These are charming stories encased in a beautiful Faber edition of gold and sapphire. Illustrated houses float on the cover like something out of a dream, as if high above a sleepy city. In the eyes of Wilde’s swallow, with the prince’s gem in its claw, something magical is about to fall into your hands as you open this beautiful collection. - Demi

Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins (Ages 12+)

The history Suzanne Collins has created for Panem is astonishing. It’s world-building at its finest. This story takes place during the 10th Annual Hunger Games (64 years before Katniss and Peeta entered the games). It centres on 18-year-old Coriolanus Snow, aka the despicable dictatorial president from the original trilogy. It also introduces District 12’s latest tribute, Lucy Gray Baird, who is nothing like Katniss. Lucy loves the spotlight, and she’s not afraid to manipulate those around her to survive. These characters are more morally ambiguous and cutthroat. This is a fascinating way to return to this world, and it made me realise how late into the mythology the original trilogy took place. There’s plenty of room for further tales. Don’t forget to read this thrilling prequel before the movie hits theatres. “May the odds be ever in your favour.” - Daniel

Lucy and the Dark by Melinda Szymanik, Illustrated by Vasanti Unka (Ages 3+)

“I’m Dark” said the voice. “It’s alright if you don’t like me. Nobody does… Just close your eyes and by morning I’ll be gone”.
Like many young children Lucy starts off afraid of the dark, until the night Dark turns up in her room to whisk her off on an exciting adventure. This turns into a journey of discovery for the entire town as Lucy finds the fun and joy you can have in the dark, and for those she leaves behind to realise what life is like without it. This is an enjoyable story for all, beginning with the cool glow-in-the-dark cover and the beautiful colour palette of the illustrations. This picture book will have you switching off the night light soon enough. - Una