Review: Mabel and the Mountain

Mabel has big plans. She’s going to climb a mountain. The only problem is, Mabel is a fly.

Her fly family don’t think she can do it, and they try to convince her it’s too hard. 

But Mabel is determined. She says,

Don’t listen to those who say you cannot. Listen to those who say you can.

This is a brilliant, brilliant, brilliant (yes, three brilliants!) picture book. 

It’s so much fun, it’s hilarious and it sends the best message a picture book can send: believe in yourself, and don’t give up when people say you can’t do something.

The illustrations in this book are some of the funkiest I have ever seen, and I love a funky illustration. They are so bright and fun, and filled with hidden funnies.

I love that Mabel is a list writer and her lists feature throughout the story. First, as she dreams big (swimming with sharks is also on her plan list). Second, when she rethinks her big plans and considers quitting. And again when she conquers her fears and proves to herself she can do anything (and then shark swimming is back on the list!).

This is Kim Hillyard’s debut as both an author and illustrator, and she’s really arrived with a bang. I am thoroughly looking forward to her next picture book: Ned and the Great Garden Hamster Race (a story about kindness)

If you love fun and funky stories that spark a smile and ignite a giggle, you’ll love Mabel and the Mountain. I put it up there with books like The Cave by Rob Hodgson and Your Birthday was the Best by Maggie Hutchings and Felicita Sala.

Title: Mabel and the Mountain
Author/Illustrator: Kim Hillyard
Publisher: Ladybird, $14.99
Publication Date: 21 July 2020
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780241407929
For ages: 3 - 6
Type: Picture Book