Powerful and deeply moving, Cherri Ryan’s Spirit is a story of hope and optimism
presented at two levels.
Filled with imagination, it initially appears to be
about a boat made from this and that
and sent forth with a passion by the girl who made it, to test its strength and
durability.
Behind the words, another meaning is revealed; one of courage and
self-belief; that of the progress of the human spirit that won’t be broken or
shattered, even under the most difficult and challenging circumstances.
The stunning end pages prelude Christina Booth’s
elegant hand drawn, full page illustrations using digital media. Her work
breathes life into Cherri Ryan’s simple yet effective text, just as the girl
blows life into the boat’s sails. Every word is meaningful, carefully
considered and valuable, creating strong imagery through the use of emotive
language, metaphors and alliteration.
The pivotal theme is never giving up. This is
presented without a shadow to dull the positive energy and tenderness that
fills each page.
This is a treasure to be owned and gifted; a book
that says a lot within the limitations of a picture book’s word count.
Title:
Spirit
Author:
Cherri Ryan
Illustrator:
Christina Booth
Publisher:
Walker Books, $24.99
Publication
Date: 1 July 2018
Format:
Hardcover
ISBN:
978192538771
For
ages: 5+
Type:
Picture Book