This engaging story about what it means to be happy, perfectly complemented by Daly's intricate illustrations, will appeal to children of five and above. - Daily Telegraph
The story is told simply and elegantly and there is effective use of dialogue to show the thoughts and feelings of the different characters. - Books for Keeps
Essentially a tale of the melting and mending of a heart. Our hardened sailor has given up on himself and needs to learn to trust others and see value in himself. By the end of the book our faith is duly restored in humanity and our ability to heal. Perseverance, forgiveness and belief are common themes in traditional and folk tales and that is not where the similarities with this book end. The text has a lyrical quality and would make a good oral story… please enjoy the book for its gentle illustrations that beautifully capture a different time. - www.writeaway.org.uk
What makes this story book special is the illustrations. Excecuted in bright blues, greens and golds, Jude Daly's delicate watercolour palates are a joy to behold. Bejewelled with dainty human figures, ornate interiors and animals and plants of every kind, they sparkle with vitality, and the innovative page layouts further enhance the reading experience. - INIS
Visually this is a lovely book, and the tale of the developing garden is one that can lead to discussion, and maybe even some gardening by young readers and their teachers or parents. - School Librarian
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