My Friend the Idea

My Friend the Idea by Cheryll Johns (Windy Hollow Books)
HC RRP $25.95
ISBN 9781922081155
Reviewed by Anastasia Gonis

With three previous books illustrated for other writers, this is the first time Cheryll Johns has both written and illustrated a picture book. It’s a clever and introspective book that encourages creativity, imagination, and thought. It refers to the influence, use and outcome of an idea. Although people may mock it, if it’s nurtured it can ‘fly (you) to the clouds’.

This could easily be seen as an inspirational book; moving and sincere in its approach and message, filled with optimism and hope, belief in self, and with an idea as the pivotal point.

This book will be treasured by adults and children with a grasp of mature concepts. With its simple and strong messages it allows freedom to interpret and analyse as it challenges the reader to consider what an idea really is; where it can lead and take you; ‘It shows me life is never small’.

The illustrations created with oil on canvas are unique, bold and vibrant. The characters are interesting like the text, and they too, speak to you from the page. Highly recommended.