by Graeme Base
Reading level: Ages 5-10
Hardcover: 48 pages
Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers (September 1, 2008)
As someone who doesn’t remember many books from her childhood, I still have fond memories of sitting in the playground at school, reading best selling author Graeme Base’s Animalia. I was forever searching for the little boy hidden in the amazing alphabetic illustrations. Since Animalia (1986), he has had many successful titles that are now considered classics. With his latest book, Enigma, he has maintained his captivating style, using mystery, rhyme, and amazing illustrations.
Enigma is a wonderful story, that manages to show the unique bond between a grandfather and grandson. Enigma is actually the name of a rabbit who belongs to Bertie’s grandpa – the retired, amazing, Gadzooks the Great. One day when visiting his Grandpa, Bertie finds out that all of the magicians’ props have disappeared – including Enigma. It takes more than just reading the story to solve the mystery – there is a fantastic code to crack at the back of the book, which unlocks hours of fun items to locate on every page. The good news is, even without breaking the code, readers learn from Bertie that you can create real magic without all of the props.
Words others have used to describe this book are: warmhearted, intriguing, magical and funny!
Do yourself a favor and stock your library (home, school, or public) with all of Graeme Base’s books.
Links: Enigma – A Magical Mystery: a post by Shelf Elf.
Author Focus: Graeme Base: a post by Literacy, Families and Learning.
Animalia: Graeme Base: a post by The Children’s Book review.
