'We're on a mission,' says Dave, believing they're bound to find something spectacular.
And so they continue to dig. A long. Way. Down.
And just before they hit something truly spectacular, they decide to change direction. Then they split up. And so miss something else spectacular.
The next idea is to dig straight down again. And wow, do they ever miss something truly amazingly spectacular then!
This utterly clever and funny book put me in mind of British pantomimes when the children yell at the fall guy: 'He's behind you!' Kids will be yelling at Sam and Dave--'No! Don't change direction! No! Don't split up!' I can just hear it now.
As each page unfolds and we see what Sam and Dave don't get to see, we realise, on some kind of subterranean level, that what we deem as spectacular is absolutely parallel to what we openly experience. Essentially, what we don't know about, we won't miss.
Also, is gold, jewels and money really as spectacular as outright adventure?
I love this gorgeously-illustrated, superbly-penned, clever book. I love it for its subtlety and creativity and kid-ness. And so, kids will love it, too.
Enjoy this official book trailer!
Title: Sam and Dave Dig a Hole
Author: Mac Barnett
Illustrator: Jon Klassen
Publisher: Walker Books, $24.95 RRP
Publication Date: 1 October 2014
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9781406357769
For ages: 3 - 8
Type: Picture Book
