BOOK REVIEW: Chalk Boy by Margaret Wild & Mandy Ord

Stephanie O'Connell | 6 July 2018 | Reply

BOOK REVIEW: Chalk Boy by Margaret Wild & Mandy Ord

Allen & Unwin
June 2018
Hardcover, $24.99
Reviewed by Steph O’Connell

Picture Book / Australian / Art

8/10

A soulful and heartwarming story about what happens when a pavement artist’s drawing comes to life.

Barnaby is a pavement artist. This morning he started drawing me. I have a head that can think, eyes that can see, ears that can hear and legs that can run. Best of all, I have a heart that can feel. Thank you, Barnaby.

Award-winning writer Margaret Wild compresses epic themes into a poetic, poignant story, vividly brought to life by Mandy Ord’s distinctive, dynamic art.

‘Chalk Boy, when the rains come you will wash away and be no more. Do you understand?’
I do.
But right now I don’t care.
I am here and life is wonderful.

Chalk Boy is a super sweet story with a chalk drawing at it’s heart, but it also tells the tale of anyone who feels like they don’t belong or are different from others. It’s a story of friendship and creativity and… was that Flinders Street Station in the background?

A lovely story to share with younger readers to encourage creativity, kindness, friendship, and empathy, and gorgeously illustrated. This is sure to make a proud addition to any picture book collection!