Review: Not a Cloud in the Sky

There's something enchanting about books that remind us of when we were young. I mean, most picture books do send us back to a childlike state, in some way or another, but when a book nails that childlike wonder, and brings childhood memories soaring back - well, that's just extra special.

In Not a Cloud in the Sky, talented author/illustrator Emma Quay takes us cloud-watching - remember cloud watching? Remember staring in awe as myriad animals and creatures and sailing ships and entire cities morphed their way across the sky?

When Bird meets up with Cloud for a 'guess what I am'-fest, a catalogue of wonderful imagery begins to unfold. From rabbits to dancing pigs and a bunch of bananas riding a motorbike, this is imagination personified.

And not only does Bird have a delightful time spotting the shapes, Cloud has an equally enjoyable time forming shapes for his entertainment.

Quay's beautifully-penned text and light-as-air illustrations are joyful, warm and a lot of fun. Kids will love spotting characters themselves (but be sure to guess before Bird does!) and adults will be satisfied with a sweetly funny ending.

Yet another sublime Quay book.

Title: Not a Cloud in the Sky

Author/Illustrator: Emma Quay
Publisher: HarperCollins, $24.99 RRP
Publication Date: 1 April 2013
Format: Hard cover with dust jacket
ISBN: 9780733330919
For ages: 4 - 10
Type: Picture Book