'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Friday, 27 December 2019

Review: Charlie's Shell

Charlie is a snail who is happy living with his shell, until the day three mean slugs taunt and tease him. Charlie then begins to question his shell's value and starts to focus on all its disadvantages.

Charlie makes the decision to be like the slugs and sheds his shell. At first he is delighted with his choice, but soon awkward, uncomfortable and dangerous consequences ensue.

The story is told in rhyme, with a flowing metre, by author/illustrator Marina Zlatanova.

Zlatanova's illustrations show Charlie and his adversaries in their garden world, with the perspective from a snail's height.

Whilst this story is a fun tale, it may also resonate with young children questioning the value of their own uniqueness in the face of teasing or bullying, providing an opportunity for discussion about Charlie and his choices.

Title: Charlie's Shell
Author/Illustrator: Marina Zlatanova
Publisher: New Holland Publishers, $16.99
Publication Date: 1 October 2019
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9781760791377
For ages: 3 - 6
Type: Picture Book