Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
My Book of Classic Nursery Tales
With each story retold and illustrated by James Mayhew, ‘My Book of Classic Nursery Tales’ would make the perfect gift for any little (or not so little) one!
There are eight wonderful stories to enjoy in this delightful collection, including perennial favourites such as ‘Goldilocks and the Tree Bears’ and ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ as well as a lesser known tale called ‘The Vain Little Mouse’. Information at the end of the book offers details about the origins of each story as well as notes from James about the choices he has made about illustrating and retelling each one.
Traditional tales are perfect for developing patterns of language and story structures and these have been retold in an engaging, light-hearted style, making them perfect for snuggling down with at bedtime, sharing with a group or enjoying independently. Children will love joining in with repeated phrases like the ‘trip-trap, trip-trap’ of the Billy Goats as they cross the bridge or the huffing and puffing of the Big Bad Wolf. This will quickly become an ‘again, again’ book- one which is constantly requested!
The illustrations are simply delightful! The bright, colourful collages will instantly appeal to little children, capturing their interest and imagination, and supporting them in retelling the stories for themselves. There are plenty of details to notice, offering much to discuss and enjoy- and perhaps inspire children to create pictures of their own.
A real joy!
My Book of Classic Nursery Tales
James Mayhew
Otter-Barry ISBN: 978-1915659736
A Symphony of Stories
This companion volume to ‘Once Upon a Tune’ continues to share the joy of music and art, inspiring young readers to explore the world of classical music and the stories it tells. ‘A Symphony of Stories’ offers six stories, most ‘retold from the original tales which inspired the composer’ and each beautifully illustrated. It is a stunning celebration of creativity- a book to keep and treasure.
Mayhew’s passion for these pieces shines through in his introduction, the accompanying notes and, above all, his fabulous illustrations which are completely captivating. There are even suggested recordings for each piece included, making it easy for adults at home or at school to share the music with children whilst enjoying the stories. From a teacher's perspective, the book is perfect for enriching the curriculum: music appreciation lessons, assemblies, story times, art lessons- all these are more could be inspired by ‘A Symphony of Stories’, sprinkling a little much- needed creative joy into learning!
I particularly enjoy ‘The Sunken Cathedral’ by Debussy, based on the Breton legend of the city of Ys, and ‘The Butterfly Lovers’ by H Zhanhao and Chen Gang, perhaps because I was less familiar with them. The notes at the end of the book were really helpful, both for background and for ‘understanding’ the music. I hope James Mayhew continues to write more books like this- and ‘Once Upon a Tune’- breathing life and love into more musical stories.
A Symphony of Stories
James Mayhew
Otter-Barry ISBN: 978-1915659347
You can read my review of ‘Once Upon a Tune’ here.
