Review: The Lucky Shack

There are times when words are hard to find, that do justice to flawless picture books. This is one of those times.

The narrative voice here belongs to the shack. It recounts the lives of the people who have loved and cared for it since its beginnings.

The structure is set close to the sea, with stunning shades of green meadows as a backdrop. Shimmering variegated blues indicate the changing phases of the water beyond and below.

The wild days of winter which darken the view are just as welcome.

Built by a now ageing fisherman, his weekly visits have maintained the building in excellent condition throughout his lifetime.

The daily routines of both lives – the fisherman’s and the shack’s, inspire reflection and gratitude for the life they’ve lived and shared.

But seasons come and go for all things. Equally so, for the shack. There are no more boots on the floors. Age and all that comes with it sets in.

Then young life arrives to turn the handle of the door. With love and patience, the fisherwoman breathes restoration and new beginnings into the shack. The old becomes new again.

Once again, it has something to look forward to.

The illustrator has done a magnificent job in translating the excellent text. Both,  immersive and intimate, this most beautiful rendering of the cycle of life, brought tears to my eyes.

Title: The Lucky Shack
Author: Apsara Baldovino
Illustrator: Jennifer Falkner
Publisher:Harper Collins, $ 24.99
Publication Date: 5July 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781922033154
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book

from Kids' Book Review https://ift.tt/QDBwsru