Just So Stories

Walker Books Australia

May 2024

ISBN13:9781529509588

Australia RRP:$27.99

New Zealand RRP:$29.99

It is no secret that I absolutely adore Anthony Browne’s work – always have, always will. He is without doubt, in my top 10 creators list. And, like so many others, I particularly love his apes.

This new book is just a lovely way to show Smalls visually the meaning of opposites. As you can see by the sample images, Anthony has once again infused each ape with true personality. It is one of the most genius aspects of his work.

He is also, IMO, a master of the power of white space in his books, as well as perspective. This very obviously could be used brilliantly as a teaching resource, but sits very happily as simply a book to enjoy for its own intrinsic loveliness. Anthony’s background as a graphic designer and medical artist is demonstrated, I believe, in his unerring attention to detail. And the loss to those two professions has been tenfold the gain to readers of all ages around the world.

I am probably repeating myself but if you have not read his biography Playing the Shape Game , I urge you to get hold of a copy. Mine will remain firmly on my shelf and as well as enjoying it myself, I have regularly shared excerpts with students who are fascinated to know background details.

As with all his marvellous books this is a sensational delight visually as well as in concept, and it gets my highest recommendation with 5 🦍🦍🦍🦍🦍 of course. It’s a must-have, folk!