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River my friend.
William Bell. Illustrated by Ken Campbell. Subject Headings:
Grades 1 - 5 / Ages 6 - 10. **** /4
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Gang-gang, the son of a poor fisherman, takes the first step toward
maturity in River my friend, William Bell's second picture book. Set in an
unidentified Asian location, this simply-told story is illustrated
effectively, evoking the tropics by using warm, rich gold and yellow tones
contrasted with cool blues and greens.
Bell takes the reader through Gang-gang's family's struggle to make
ends meet and their brief encounter with modest "wealth" when a rich woman
generously pays them for fresh fish. Gang-gang begins to understand his
family's plight and is determined to help out, only to come close to
suffering a tragic end to his life.
All turns out well, however. Gang-gang catches the "entrepreneurial
spirit" which is necessary to his family's survival and moves toward young
adulthood in the process.
The author skilfully uses lyrical language and appropriate imagery
reminiscent of traditional folklore but, at the same time, he successfully
carries out a theme relevant to contemporary families as well. Illustrator
Ken Campbell complements this fine story with refreshing portraits of a
loving family, capturing their emotions and daily activities in lovely full
colour, and using a variety of points of view.
Fans of William Bell who enjoy his thoughtful works for middle
years and young adults will be impressed with his new venture into writing
for younger folks.
Highly Recommended
Elaine Seepish is an Information Specialist, Instructional Resources, Manitoba Education and Training.
To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.
Copyright © 1996 the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.
Published by
The Manitoba Library Association
ISSN 1201-9364
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