FUTURE GENERATION CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW Northwood by Brian Falkner, illustrated by Donovan Bixley. (Walker, $22.99) Walker Books Australia has recently released Northwood a stunning new novel by award-winning author Brian Falkner, illustrated by Donovan Bixley. This highly recommended new novel is by a kiwi author and illustrator aimed at mid to upper primary children. Northwood is a fantasy/adventure with many fairytale elements and features a young heroine called Cecilia Undergarment. It is a quirky tale involving a daring dog rescue, an extraordinary balloon house, a mean villain and an adventure in “a mist shrouded forest maze inhabited by ferocious black lions”. This is where the adventure really begins and I have already had tales of a seven to eight year olds being totally silent and riveted while this magical tale unfolds day by day. Northwood is a departure from Falkner’s usual style and proves his talent in more than one genre. Bixley’s illustrations are scattered throughout the book and his use of half toned drawings add atmosphere and perfectly complement the text. This novel will win awards. PN
PONSONBY NEWS RECEIVED A GREAT DEAL OF FEEDBACK ON LAST MONTH’S front cover from a number of readers. We thank 12-year-old Annabelle Rennie-Younger for her efforts - the brief was to include both Rugby and Ponsonby. Ponsonby News has made a donation of $500 to Ponsonby Intermediate’s art department. Below is a photo of Wim Boxen, the head teacher and several teachers along with Annabelle. PN
photography: martin leach
DOROTHY BUTLER CHILDREN’S BOOKSHOP, 1 Jervois Road T: 09 376 7283 www.childrensbookshop.co.nz
PONSONBY NEWS SEPTEMBER COVER
Pictured, left - right: ANNABELLE RENNIE-YOUNGER, WIM BOXEN, EMILY PROCNER and REBECCA THOMPSON
104 PONSONBY NEWS+ October 2011
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