You're Snug With Me by Chitra Soundar - Illustrated by Poonam Mistry

Chitra Soundar and Poonam Mistry have done it again! In their second collaboration, readers are transported from the tropical jungles in You're Safe With Me, to the cold arctic tundra with this complementary piece. Sheltered from the elements, Mama Bear and her two cubs share a cozy den while waiting for spring to return. Hidden from the world through the long winter, the cubs fill with curiosity for the land they have yet to explore. Mama Bear replies with encouraging words to comfort and nurture their independence. As the cubs discover the wonders of their home and themselves, Mama Bear fosters knowledge and respect for the earth and all of its inhabitants: "We're never alone in this world....We should only ever take what we need".

The illustrations are spectacular and undeniably "Poonam Mistry". Filled to the brim and dense with structurally precise shapes and swirls. There is little to no white space in the composition and yet it does not appear cluttered. Various arctic animals and sea life are presented as is the frozen landscape, all in a patterned design reminiscent of beadwork. The abundance of crisp snowflakes, ice crystals and stars add sparkle and opulence to an already luxurious display. The art is created with ink on paper and completed digitally. The book size and production is similar to You're Safe With Me with the addition of the silver foiling for the snowflakes on the cover; it's quite eye catching. Words, shapes, and colours, all work in perfect unison in this inspiring and cautionary tale for the future caretakers of our planet. Recommended for ages 4+.

Amazon

Lantana Publishing 2018
Hardcover 32p
9.75" x 9.6"

The Wild Beast by Eric Walters - Illustrated by Sue Todd

A creation story originating from African folklore, The Wild Beast is a mythical guide through the universe revealing the birth of the sun, stars, earth and the animals that inhabit it. The world unfolds in uncomplicated fashion and fills in the emptiness that once was with an environmental message to take only what is needed and waste nothing.

The Creator uses feathers to build beasts for the skies, scales for beasts in the seas and fur for beasts on the ground. The world fills up with all kinds of beasts until it is full..and by collecting the leftover pieces of various animal parts, the last beasts are created. With a focus on the planet and animals, humans are absent in this story.

Vibrant and bold illustrations are throughout. The dark outlines will help younger readers to differentiate between the different animals when searching for their favourite ones. The illustrations are created with linoleum print and digital colour. Recommended for ages 4+.

Amazon
Orca Book Publishers 2018
Hardcover 32p
8.8" x 10.8"