A picture book that reveals a truth we might not all want to realise. 'The Island' tells the story of a mysterious man who appears on an island and hoA picture book that reveals a truth we might not all want to realise. 'The Island' tells the story of a mysterious man who appears on an island and how he is accepted, or in this case not accepted by the people around him. A shocking narrative, with a lasting providence in society today.
The themes of unknowing, fear and sectarianism addressed in this book provide children with a perspective many will not have encountered in their previous reading. This lends the book perfectly with upper KS2 for discussions about their world and their impact on the world; as well as maybe a way of displaying bullying to children in an impactful way that encourages a consideration of actions and consequences when looking at the events from an outside perspective.
This narrative is perfectly accompanied by abstract illustrations that maximise the emotions experienced by the reader. The sketching illustrations aid in carrying the emotions throughout the narrative and provides teachers with the opportunity to spend time with an older class looking at the picture book and addressing the misconception that picture books are only for KS1. Although, this text does address a difficult topic in a straight forward and truthful manner meaning that it could be challenging even for some children in the last years of Primary school. Therefore, this book might be better used in small groups of older primary children, or could be look at in parts by the whole class although I feel that not looking at the whole story is a crying shame.
Overall, it was a new experience to read such a stark and insightful picture book that addresses such a challenging topic but it has definitely opened my eyes. A beautifully insightful tale, perfect for making the reader think, not only about themselves but their society and their view of the world they want to be a part of. ...more
A beautiful and poignant narrative, perfectly accompanied by illustrations that provide perspective, depth and emotions. 'The Journey' focuses on the A beautiful and poignant narrative, perfectly accompanied by illustrations that provide perspective, depth and emotions. 'The Journey' focuses on the tale of a family forced to leave their home because of war and follows their journey to find somewhere safe.
The narrative is filled with symbols and emotions making the reader question the events of the tale and how each individual character feels about the events happening to them. However, the narrative is only part of the picture, the illustrations add layers of depth and make this tale something that you could easily spend hours on in the classroom.
The illustrations each provide an individual perspective, that opens more about the narrative than simply looking at the words. The illustrations include many references to fairy tales, creating an idea of how issues like this are displayed within society. Particularly effective, is the use of black and shadow to display the ideas of war and death- the all consuming black presence on some of the pages help to make the message of impact and consequences clear and could be really poignant in conveying other realities to children in the classroom. Despite this sense of sadness, the colours almost present a sense of positivity and hope which provides the reader with the determination to see the journey of the characters throughout.
Overall, having waited to read this picture book for a long time it has exceeded all expectations I had and definitely need to re read this book again to take time to consider the many ways it could be used throughout the primary classroom and even throughout the Primary school. Would recommend to anyone that wants to expand their perspective and challenge their ideas on the world that they live in. ...more