Cory Q. Tan

Not gonna lie, A Family Dinner is fun for both adults and children.

Yes, it's a picture book about making a family dinner but there is just some comedy that I totally enjoyed. The Mother asking the Father to do something useful reminded me of my own household when any of us were lazy. It had me chuckling and feeling quite nostalgic. It's passive aggressive, but still hilarious.

Dad ends up making some goofy mistakes along the way, because of course he did. He goes on a mighty adventure to get his wife carrots. This book travels into a bit of a fantastical realm, which makes it even more wicked. It took twists even I wouldn't have seen coming! I'm seriously surprised more people haven't read this, because it totally would have been a childhood favourite for me. It's so crazy!

I would recommend this picture book for a little older of a group of kids (maybe eight and up?) and not for your wee little ones. It's still a delightful book nonetheless. I hope to pick up some more books by Cory Q. Tan in the future!

Four out of five stars.… (plus d'informations)

A first book in a new series with characters from the last series of the Theodore books.
What can I say, yet again an absolutely delightful book by Cory Q Tan that will once again transport you to a magical place through his stories and his illustrations.
Without giving much away, the big bad wolf, 'Mr Bradbury Woods', goes through somewhat of a comical grocery shopping adventure with a young blind girl Sophie and her dog Rudolf. With the intention of him eating Sophie for dinner he is put through being 'lucky' and 'unlucky' all at the same time through a series of events that will keep you engaged with some unexpected turns.
The writing shows the authors great imagination which comes through a variety of inspiration from his life and the world around him, as can be read at the end of the book or through his blog.

Once again the unique illustrations by Cory Q Tan himself, will leave you mesmerised. The sheer time spent on this artwork is clearly visible through all the detail, textures and patterns involved to create such vivid compositions.

Children and adults alike would never get bored with this authors entire collection on their bookshelves to read over and over and to immerse themselves in illustrations that bring something new every time you go back to them.
I for one can not wait for this authors next book!… (plus d'informations)

Another masterpiece from the fabulous storyteller. This review was long overdue and due to several hurdles I was unable to add this.

Having read other books Cory, I was exhilarated to receive another book for review. He didn't disappoint me in the least. The moment I opened the book to read with my daughter, she was completely blown away by the illustrations that accompanied the story. Cory manages to capture the innocence of childhood and shares the very essence that makes childhood beautiful.

In this story, we are led by Annabelle through a journey of adventure, thrills, dangers and mystery. Her grandmother has brought her a new teddy bear which she says is the "Best Teddy Bear in the World". Having forgotten Theodore in her excitement, Annabelle decides to meet her grandmother and see the Teddy bear. The journey she takes comes with full of surprises and danger.

Besides a pleasant read, Cory also imparts valuable lessons about friendship, loyalty, courage and parental advice. Annabelle lands into trouble due to her eagerness to see the new teddy bear despite her mother asking her not to. Just like any other child she throws caution to the wind and follows her desire. Theodore displays courage and loyalty to Annabelle despite feeling disregarded for a while.

There is also an important lesson of valuing what we have at hands rather than running after newer things. It's a lesson on contentment and gratification.

The illustrations in the book by Cory himself are a masterstroke in art. The vibrant colors and the intricate patterns add joy to the reading. Each page is a separate artwork that pleases the eyes, the heart and the mind. The bus terminal, the town Annabelle ends up in, the labyrinth of stairs, the town square dead end, are a few of my most favorite illustrations from this book.

Even though a children's book I highly recommend this book to everyone. Since I enjoyed reading this. It led me down the memory lane where childhood had innocence, beauty and the joy of friendship.… (plus d'informations)