Once Upon an ABC
written
by Sophie Masson, illustrated by Christopher Nielsen (Little Hare Books) HB RRP
$24.99 ISBN 9781760128432
Reviewed
by Liz Ledden
Sophie
Masson’s Once Upon an ABC is a
stunning ode to folk and fairytales. For every letter of the alphabet is a
character from stories past, ranging from the highly recognisable to the more
obscure.
There’s
Rapunzel and Jack in the Beanstalk, the wily old wolf from Little Red Riding Hood
(as G for Grandma, of course!). The Ugly Duckling and Puss in Boots make an
appearance, as do mythological creatures such as a Pegasus and Nymph. Certain
inclusions may leave readers scratching their heads – Y for Yggdrasil, anyone?
However, ensuing discussion and bookish research may open young readers’ eyes
to a whole new world of stories and characters they weren’t otherwise familiar
with.
Told
in an engaging rhyme, this is an ABC with a difference – a collectible homage
to legendary tales. Nielsen’s illustrations pop with primary colours and have a
timeless, retro style. The endpapers are a typography-lovers’ delight.
