But at night, sleep won’t come to him. His sister has a suggestion. So does his brother. He even tries the warm milk that mum makes. But nothing works.
He escapes to Gran’s empty room. He loves the
sounds she make and the warm cuddles she gives. Gran knows what to do and say.
Gran’s whispered words tell George the story of the
magical Dream Bird whose grace and loveliness can see behind closed eyes. It comes
at night to bring musical delight to children by singing them to sleep, to
dream the most imaginative dreams.
Aleesah Darlison is a gifted children’s writer. She
has the ability to approach children’s emotions and feelings in a sensitive and
insightful way. Her poetic, carefully chosen text creates a sense of calm and
relaxation.
Emma Middleton has done a stellar job of
translating the text. The luminous, emotive images of Gran together with George
are full of unmistakeable tenderness and love. The use of pink was the perfect
choice. Washes of soft pastel colours fill the book with positive energy and
beauty.
The themes of children’s fears, their inability to
relax into sleep at bedtime, and the importance of bedtime rituals, shine
through. Evident is the bond between grandparent and child which I found deeply
moving.
Title:
The Dream Bird
Author:
Aleesah Darlison
Illustrator:
Emma Middleton
Publisher:
Wombat Books, $19.99
Publication
Date: April 2018
Format:
Hardcover
ISBN:
9781925563337
For
ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book