Sunshine

Sunshine by Jarrett J. Krosoczka (Scholastic) PB RRP $22.99 ISBN: 9781338356311

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Sixteen-year-old Jarrett spends a week volunteering at a camp for seriously ill kids and their families. At first he worries that it will be depressing, and that he won’t be able to connect to the children in his care. But he ends up getting as much out of the experience as the sick kids: confidence, compassion and consolation.

Jarrett J. Krosoczka created this graphic novel based on his own real-life stint as a camp counsellor, and this gives the narrative both an arresting authenticity and a depth of emotion that is almost overwhelming. Aimed at readers aged thirteen to seventeen, the story does not shy away from the terrible truth of childhood cancer and death. However, the conclusion is both uplifting and inspiring, ensuring that teens are left heartened after turning the last page.

Jarrett’s greyscale illustrations feature touches of sunshine yellow, subtly buoying readers even during the darkest parts of the book. His choice to utilise the graphic-novel form is commendable, as it brings to life not only the vast cast of characters but also the comforting camp encounters in a relatable way.

Moving and memorable, Sunshine will stay with readers for a long time. And, like the protagonist, they will come away from the book with a fresh perspective on what really matters in this world. 

Sunshine

Sunshine by Jarrett J. Krosoczka (Scholastic) PB RRP $22.99 ISBN: 9781338356311

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Sixteen-year-old Jarrett spends a week volunteering at a camp for seriously ill kids and their families. At first he worries that it will be depressing, and that he won’t be able to connect to the children in his care. But he ends up getting as much out of the experience as the sick kids: confidence, compassion, and consolation.

Jarrett J. Krosoczka created this graphic novel based on his own real-life stint as a camp counsellor, and this gives the narrative both an arresting authenticity and a depth of emotion that is almost overwhelming. Aimed at readers aged thirteen to seventeen, the story does not shy away from the terrible truth of childhood cancer and death. However, the conclusion is both uplifting and inspiring, ensuring that teens are left heartened after turning the last page.

Jarrett’s greyscale illustrations feature touches of sunshine yellow, subtly buoying readers even during the darkest parts of the book. His choice to utilise the graphic-novel form is commendable, as it brings to life not only the vast cast of characters but also the comforting camp encounters in a relatable way.

Moving and memorable, Sunshine will stay with readers for a long time. And, like the protagonist, they will come away from the book with a fresh perspective on what really matters in this world. 

Sunshine and Moonlight

Sunshine and Moonlight by Jan Ormerod (HarperCollins) HB RRP $19.99 each ISBN: 9781460761588 (Sunshine), 9781460761601 (Moonlight)

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Reprinted to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their publication, Sunshine and Moonlight are picture-book masterpieces that still resonate with today’s kids. Sunshine follows a family’s morning routine, from the young protagonist waking up before her parents to the rush when they realise that they are running late. A

perfect bookend to Sunshine, Moonlight captures the nightly routine, from dinner and bath to bedtime. Who will fall asleep first – parents or child?

Incredibly, the nuanced stories in Sunshine and Moonlight are both told without words. Jan Ormerod leads youngsters aged three and older on two different but very familiar journeys, yet still manages to surprise littlies with clever twists at pivotal moments. The lack of words empowers the reader to create their own narrative and allows them to add personal light and shade to the layered pages.

Utilising clean lines and lifelike colours, Jan’s illustrations are brimming with detail and dynamism. Small eyes will rake the spreads with glee as they search for signposts to guide their storytelling. Jan’s characterisation of the child protagonist is especially charming, and will appeal to readers both young and old.

Although they seem simple on the surface, Sunshine and Moonlight exude an emotional depth that is endearing. Thanks to these fresh editions, a new generation of children will discover the warmth and wonder of these timeless books.