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Sunday, 26 February 2012

Review: Note on the Door

Lorraine Marwood’s Star Jumps won the 2010 Prime Minister’s Literary Award, but I think Note on the Door is even better.

This collection of short simple verse triggers a surprising variety of emotions. One tale resurrects wistful memories of childhood while another has me grinning with delight. At times I have to hold back a tear. I never thought it could be possible, but I really liked almost every poem in Note on the Door, without exception.

Lorraine offers snapshots of daily activities, holidays, weekend sport, and life in general. Sick days intermingle with life in the kitchen and tales about pets and neighbours. Reflections cover past lives, childhood illness and dying.

Each page offers a little of the unexpected. A doodle decorates one corner, a photo makes its own statement on another. Paw prints patter while random ink splotches make their own mark amid  simple sketches. It’s a bit like my house - a comfortable mess.

There is something in Note on the Door for everyone, even those who think they are not into poetry. Thank you, Lorraine. I’m now an official fan; both of everyday tales and verse in its many forms.

- this review by Jo Burnell

Title: Note on the Door
Author: Lorraine Marwood
Publisher: Walker Books, $15.95RRP
Publication Date: September 2011
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781921720611
For ages: 7 – 11
Type: Poetry