This has not been possible since her twin brothers, Pepi and Penn, joined the family unit. All they seem to do is squeal and demand food.
Her parents’ attention is given totally to caring for, and protecting,
their unfledged young.
Pippa is left in charge of her troublesome brothers while her parents search for food. Being an older sister is a big responsibility, she realises. As she focuses on the wide, open spaces calling to her, her resentment rises at the fact she is no longer free to fly and discover.
Dangers lurk even high up on tree branches. As Pippa’s anger unfurls against her brothers, she instinctively reverts to protector when the twins are threatened.
Family dynamics have changed. Can the clever Pippa
find a way to be a loving big sister and still retain her freedom?
The demands of the squabs and Pippa’s reaction to
her siblings are ideal analogies of human baby behaviour and the ability of
older siblings to adapt to change.
Andrew Plant uses acrylic paints and watercolour
pencils on stretched watercolour paper to create images so real, they appear to
be ready to fly off the page. Close up images show in detail, every emotion the
characters are experiencing. The wide,
open spaces in soft green shades are breathtaking. Delicate falling feathers decorate
the end pages.
Dimity Powell’s intimate knowledge of her subject is
evident in her meticulously chosen text and Plant’s brilliant interpretation of
it.
From this beautifully presented picture book story,
children learn about squabs, their habits, and need of protection until they
can fend for themselves. The glorious presentation will encourage children to
research further, the fascinating and important lives of homing pigeons.
Pippa and the Troublesome Twins is the sequel to the stunning Pippa.
Title: Pippa and the Troublesome Twins
Author: Dimity Powell
Illustrator: Andrew Plant
Publisher: FORD ST, $26.95
Publication Date: 1 June 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781922696281
For ages: 4 – 6
Type: Picture Book