Door Jacques Heemskerk, met dank aan Willem Wagenaar
About: The Secret of Black Rock, a children’s picture book written and illustrated by Joe Todd-Stanton.
“Channelling Tove Jansson, Tintin and Japanese anime studio Studio Ghibli, the book’s enchanting, richly coloured illustrations had details to savour in every frame: a godsend for parents of reluctant learner-readers.
“from the cover and title I thought of it as a modern version of Tintin with a female lead role”
“Might also suit anyone preparing their child for Tintin, or other adventures”
“I thought the front cover bared a striking resemblence to The Black Island would you agree?”
“it makes me think that the author is, or was, influenced by Tintin“
The cover may look a little Tintin-like, and Erin (with the Snowy-like Archie) may feel like a Herge heroine, but the story gives occasion to think a little more and opportunity for parents and teachers to use this as a teaching point.
I enjoyed the book’s bold and detailed full-page illustrations, beautiful cover and endpapers which are reminiscent of Tintin comic books.