Megan McKean's version of a Sydney tour is delightful in its gorgeous niaive-style art, with a scrumptious colour palette and that lovely twisted sort of perspective that makes you feel like you're reading an old French magazine.
The narrative is warm and friendly, welcoming us with a hearty 'Good morning, Sydney!' and taking us on a sunny journey around Australia's largest city.
Seagulls are our guide, and there are six for kids to spot on each double-page spread--each one busy with all manner of objects, from the ferries, buildings and trees of the harbour, through the higgledy-piggledy streets of The Rocks, Sydney Tower and even the Queen Victoria Building at 455 George Street. The latter is one of my favourite pages, as we get to peek inside a cross-section of this magnificent building.
Along the way, text gives us some fascinating facts--many that I hadn't even heard of--but presented in a way that's accessible for kids. Delightful endpapers of gulls round out this gorgeous book with stacks of visual punch.
Another one to add to the collection!
Title: Hello, Sydney!
Author/Illustrator: Megan McKean
Publisher: Thames & Hudson, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 October 2016
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9780500500767
For ages: 4 - 8
Type: Picture Book
