Now and then a
book comes along that leaves a little imprint inside your heart. From title to cover image to the golden journey
inside its pages, This Is My Dad is one such book.
Leo has a
problem – he’s been asked to talk about his dad at Show and Tell, but he
doesn’t have a dad. He does have a wickedly amazing mum who writes books
about space aliens and saves the online world night after night (in very
fetching stripy socks), but he’s never had a dad.
‘The perfect dad isn’t always a father.’ Leo’s situation raises infinite amounts of wondering about dads in general, and about his dad in particular.
As Leo ponders
whether his dad might just be a surgeon or a frisbee thrower (and hats off to
illustrator Nicky Johnston for the most excellent man-bun!), the reader
ponders along with him. So much so, that we’re totally onboard when he asks the
elderly neighbour to be a stand-in dad and a little sad when said neighbour
suggests using the dog instead.
The evocative,
beautiful illustrations interact seamlessly with the words and are a perfect
complement to the story. The images are made to pore over as they sparkle off
the page with life and movement. Gentle yet strong in a soothing colour
palette, they are both flowing and funny. There is immaculate detail and an aha
moment on almost every page.
And to the
words themselves – I truly love the thoughtful and authentic approach that Leo
takes to problem solving. His methods are creative as well as logical, moving
through the initial refrain of ‘Mum? Mum? Muuuuum?’ to ultimately taking
matters into his own hands. It’s wonderful that Leo is brave and empowered enough
to make a discovery that is, in fact, a wonderful surprise to the reader.
This picture book holds a beautifully balanced celebration of family, creativity and ingenuity. Whether it’s the cheerful, methodical way that Leo’s problem-solving comes to life, the funny and thoughtful artwork - or more than likely, the magical author/illustrator combo of both – This Is My Dad busts through typical family stereotypes and conventions in all of the best ways.
Title: This Is My DadAuthor: Dimity Powell and Nicky Johnston
Publisher: EK Books $24.99
Publication Date: 2 March, 2022
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9781922539076
For ages: 4 - 8
Type: Picture Book
