Review: Little Tim and the Brave Sea Captain

I have long adored Edward Ardizzone's work. For me, his illustrations were some of the very first 'modern style' creations for children's books, at a time when more traditional artworks were more often used. His beautifully-crafted watercolour illustrations put me in my of more contemporary creators such as Quentin Blake and Bob Graham.

First published in 1936, Little Tim and the Brave Sea Captain takes children on a journey to the sea where we meet a little boy who very much wants to be a sailor.

Little Tim astounds his parents by how much he knows about the sea and ships, but when Tim asks if he can go away to sea, they simply laugh and say he's too young.

Tempted to run away, the young lad pounces on the chance to join a local boatman, paddling out to a steamer to say goodbye to a friend. Of course, Tim can't help himself--he hides on the steamer and the ship leaves with the boy on board.

And that's when his adventure begins.

A classic-style tale, with more text than its more contemporary picture book cousin, this would be a wonderful resource to show children how much storytelling has changed when it comes to picture books. The text is accessible, the illustrations are fascinating (particularly in referencing the 1930s) and the tale of high adventure is something that will deeply resonate with kids.

This particular hardback edition is in celebration of the 80th anniversary of the book's 1936 publication.

Learn more about Ardizzone's work here. He truly had a fascinating life.

Title: Little Tim and the Brave Sea Captain
Author/Illustrator: Edward Ardizzone
Publisher: Frances Lincoln, $29.99
Publication Date: 1 October 2015
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9781847807359
For ages: 5 - 10
Type: Picture Book