In Baz & Benz, two delightful owl characters take readers on a cute and thought provoking exploration of true friendship. As Baz and Benz sit wide-eyed in a tree in the afternoon light, Baz the small owl asks Benz if they are friends, in sure confidence Benz answers that they are in fact ‘bestest friends’. Then, like an inquisitive child, Baz continues, page-by-page through the night and into the morning with a series of curious but innocent questions about their friendship, Baz even tests their bond along the way.
The engaging two way conversation between the characters builds momentum and excitement with each page turn, especially when there are fun ‘meeping’ sounds to make!
I adore the digital design with minimal, cosy colour palette, bold shapes and textures which roll with the story oh so perfectly. The use of light to show night to day is wonderful, and those big round owl eyes bring an array of character and story telling in themselves.
Ending with a wholesome, feel-good message about genuine friendship and what it can withstand, this story is perfect for groups or one-on-one reading. It’s also well suited to young primary aged children who are learning to read.
Heidi McKinnon is an author and illustrator based in Melbourne, Australia. Baz & Benz was released in 2019, it is Heidi’s third author illustrated picture book, following I Just Ate My Friend.
Title: Baz & Benz
Author/Illustrator: Heidi McKinnon
Publisher: Allen & Unwin, $24.99
Publication Date: 4 March 2019
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9781760523688
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book