On a Small Island (Kyle Hughes-Odgers, Fremantle Press)

Ari sits on his small island, watching the big ships pass him by. He longs for them to stop and visit him. Then one day, he has an idea. Initially it’s the artwork in On a Small Island that draws the reader in, with its inviting palette of bold blues and warm oranges, and its collage-like appearance. Artist Kyle Hughes-Odgers’ unique style is intricately detailed, and offers the reader so much to explore on every page. But there is something about Ari, the main character of the story, and his unassuming way of going about things, that ultimately gets you. Hughes-Odgers uses simple but well-crafted language throughout, and gives Ari that hint of quirkiness that makes him endearing to the reader. There is a gentleness to the tone and pace of the book, and its simple storyline, with themes of loneliness, patience and creativity, is heartwarming and delightful. This is Hughes-Odgers’ second book after 10 Tiny Things, the award-winning picture book he created with Meg McKinley in 2012. Suitable for readers aged three and up, this picture book will undoubtedly stir the hearts of both young and old.

Freelance writer and reviewer Sarah Coull has worked as a children’s bookseller and most recently as an editor for an educational publisher