Gorinjas - the beginning

Gorinjas - the beginning by Mark Lancaster, illustrated by Inma Vassar (Moshpit Publishing) PB RRP $13.50

ISBN 978-1925529715

Reviewed by Stacey Gladman

Throughout life we face adversity and challenges: the real challenge is how we deal with them. Gorinjas - the beginning introduces the reader to two young characters - Gonga and Jemma - with a twist. Both Gonna and Jemma and all characters in the book are gorillas. The gorillas, much like humans attend school and have their own problems to deal with, such as bullying.

Gonga and Jemma have been bullied throughout their lives. A chance sighting of a legend among the gorillas - Shintu - sets them on a path to self discovery through martial arts. Shintu was himself trained in martial arts by monks and begins to teach

the two young gorillas the intricate nature of martial arts.

The fast-paced action story has everything for young readers aged eight to 12 years including martial arts, secret tunnels and life lessons. The story flowed well throughout, with readers getting a good sense of understanding what was happening without stagnating for young readers. A more serious undertone of determination and hard work pays off in the end for Gonga and Jemma, with the pair eventually coming face to face with their bully, but will their training be enough?

The book is written in easy to read chapters, with interspersed monochrome drawings throughout at key scenes which add their own element to the story experience. The idea of writing from a gorilla’s point of view is interesting and comes across well, which I believe helps the reader relate to central characters.

Gorinjas - the beginning appears to be part of an ongoing series and I can see young readers wanting to read on and find out what adventures Gonga and Jemma go on next. It has the potential to be used a learning tool on how to deal with adversity in a non-violent manner and learning about the inner peace and calm that martial arts is centred around.

The Mouse and His Child

The Mouse and His Child by Russell Hoban, illustrated by Lillian Hoban (Allen & Unwin) PB RRP $14.99

ISBN 9780571307555

Reviewed by Anastasia Gonis

This classic was first printed in 1967.  Russell Hoban has left a magnificent legacy to the world of children’s books. Anyone who has not undertaken a journey into his work, I suggest you explore his incredible talent.

As always, Hoban’s work is composed of strong philosophical messages and powerful themes that weave in and out of clever prose and a well-crafted story. The illustrations are by Russell’s wife, Lillian Hoban.

The backstory begins with two tin wind-up toy mice. They are father and son that live in a grand doll’s house until they are purchased from the toy shop to be placed under a Christmas tree. For years they are taken out and wound only during the days of Christmas, before they are crushed by a falling vase and thrown into the rubbish bin. A homeless man that had admired them through the shop window before their sale, retrieves them, patches them up, and sets them on their way to whatever is waiting for them.

 

They go on a courageous, lengthy journey which becomes a lesson in self-discovery. Great change occurs in both father and child mouse. They restore themselves from the broken shells they had become due to bad experiences and betrayals, overcome starvation and immobility, and endure everything to remain free. Their past prepares them for what’s to come.

Roles are reversed. The last are now first; the enemy now an ally and friend.

This story is about a ‘scattering regathered’, hope and optimism, and the power and liberation of forgiveness. It’s about family and a place of one’s own; the realization of dreams, and justice, as everything comes full circle. Absolutely brilliant!