Get your giggles out because this book will have you ‘rolling’ around
with laughter.
It’s a Long Way to the Shop is a quirky story about two rocks on an epic mission to find a tasty snack. Along the way the rocks find plenty of things they can’t do, including climbing, flying and swimming, but somehow they keep being propelled towards the shop.
Green rock’s practical disposition paired with pink rock’s fanciful nature, causes many funny moments. The ending is totally what I’d hoped for. Just remember to make sure you look at the gorgeous end papers as they are a part of the story.
Full of page-turning moments, Heidi McKinnon’s writing style is off-beat and witty. Her dialogue only text creates great characterisation and places the reader smack-dab in the middle of the action. She simplifies the text by using the colours of the rocks to show the speaker. All in all, McKinnon has created a story of friendship, determination and persistence.
I love McKinnon’s clean and minimal illustration style. The rocks’ colours pop against the washed-out backgrounds. Further the limited colour palette allows the rocks’ expressions to stand out. She has also added layers of meaning especially on the rock concert page so make sure you take a close look.
Both adults and kids will love It’s a Long Way to the Shop, especially fans of Jon Klassen. For someone who is always saying to her kids, ‘Come on, let’s rock ‘n’ roll,’ this story really tickled my fancy. There are rock ‘n’ roll references galore. What more can I say, except read this book and let the good times roll. Sorry, I couldn’t help myself!
McKinnon’s work has been shortlisted for numerous awards. If you’re keen to find out more about this talented creator, her KBR interview is here. You can also read reviews of McKinnon’s other fantastic books including, I Just Ate My Friend and Baz & Benz.
Title: It’s a Long Way To The Shop
Author/Illustrator: Heidi McKinnon
Publisher: Scholastic Australia, $17.99
Publication Date: 1 November 2018
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781742998855
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book
