As the Rio Afuá ferry twists its way along the Amazon, Sean Taylor breathes in not only stories from local people he meets, but also the rich smells, sights and sounds of the extraordinary landscape. From trickster jaguars and the slowest of sloths to spine-tingling giant serpents and white-suited river strangers, his retellings teem with legendary beings, vivid colours, down-to-earth comedy and the mysteries of the rainforest, revealing Amazon people's beliefs along with their way of life. Dramatic illustrations, together with notes and a glossary, combine to make this a very special collection, filling a gap in the market for collections from South America.
3 stars - full of rainforest resonance which the generous wood and rubber cut pictures compliment finely. - Books for Keeps
Illustrated in a striking palette dominated by green, orange, ochre and black, the resulting book is unusually demanding and correspondingly rewarding. - School Librarian
These short tales are thoughtful and, at times, humorous. The narrative in between links each one and introduces us to the colourful array of characters also travelling on the boat. Fernando Vilela's woodcuts in vivid oranges, greens and blues feel as if they are almost growing among the words. Sean Taylor's conclusion to this wonderful conclusion to this wonderful book is ultimately one of hope, with a percentage of the royalties going towards the Mamiraua Institute for Sustainable Development. - Carousel
Publication Details:
Binding: Hardback, 64 pages ISBN: 9781845075293 Format: 270mm x 214mm
BIC Code:YFH, YFJ BISAC Code:JUV030040 Imprint: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
Email to a colleague