Sassafras de Bruyn

This is a wonderful picture book with absolutely gorgeous illustrations. They are full page and the colours make them very magical and imaginative. The only problem I have with this book is the font. Being in script, it is difficult to read and will be almost impossible for young readers.

Cleo is a sad, lonely little girl who dreams of adventure. She is always being yelled at, hurry up Cleo, tidy your room Cleo, Don't miss the bus Cleo. She has a wonderful imagination that she uses to escape this world. She and her cat, Amadeus, head off in a boat to a land faraway to see new things. While she is there, she sees a boy. He is another day dreamer and they realize that they are not alone. Together they see mermaids, battle sea monsters, tell each other stories and take on the whole world.

Cleo is an imaginative little book. This book is for "daydreamers 5 & up." This book could definiely be read to young children who can not read on their own and it would be great for a parent and child to experience together. This story inspires children to imagine and daydream as well as to realize that they are not alone, there will always be someone out there with the same interests as them.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.… (mere)

Cleo feels overwhelmed because all that is expected from her. She is also sad since she doesn't seem to fit among her peers. Is in these moments that she sails to explore and conquer her imagination, bringing with her only her cat Amadeus. She visits many places, and somewhere she meets a boy who becomes her friend. He is not an imaginary friend, but another dreamy kid who found Cleo in some magical land. They fight monsters and face storms. They tell stories to the sea animals and climb to the sky. And they keep company to each other when the magic trip comes to an end.

Cleo's story is touching, and I am sure many kids will relate with her experiences. The illustrations are incredibly beautiful. The only thing that prevents me of giving this book 5 stars is the font, which I found hard to help kids to read. I am eager to check for more of this author's work.

I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Find more children's book reviews in Reviews in Chalk… (mere)