Climb

Climb by Caroline Tuohey, illustrated by Emma Stuart (Little Steps Publishing)

PB RRP $16.95

ISBN 9781921928871

Reviewed by Anne Hamilton

With appealing rhyme and steady rhythm, Climb is a book for inquisitive and adventurous three to six year olds. However it shouldn’t be restricted to just those few. It’s also for shy and cautious children who need encouragement to be more active.

Perhaps it should come with a caution for those of a more daring persuasion who don’t need the slightest encouragement to set off skywards. Although mum exerts a quiet and watchful eye in the latter part of the book, her visual absence in the first part may need to be covered by a careful comment.

I loved the illustration on the front cover of the boy climbing the ladder to the wide white yonder. His expression is one of delight and curiosity. This sense of wonder pervades the book. Even when things go wrong with a slip at the gate, the boy’s pleasure never really wavers. (He’s got what it takes to take on Everest when he’s older: it’s not about the top, it’s about the joy of the climb.)

Emma Stuart’s watercolours enhance a lively and exuberant text.