Abouts Books

By Kay Green

I was at the Stamford arts festival in February and amongst the usual racks and boxes and piles of books in the literary exhibition, one stall caught my eye. It was laid out with a tempting array of pebbles and shells, and was drawing the fingers of any little people who passed by. Stones, shells and pieces of seaweed were laid out in patterns that suggested games - games one could make up or develop with a friend.

The stall belonged to Janet Murch, better known as a poetry editor at Iota, but today she was exhibiting a book for children that she has written along with artist Lizzie Mee. Herman's Stone' is a very attractive read for adults and children to enjoy together, all about a stone-age boy called Herman, and the treasures he finds on the beach. It begins thus:

Herman lived on Herm Island thousands of years ago. He loved to explore and he knew the whole island very well. His favourite place was the rocky beach.

There are many books for little people that start in a similar way but this one is special for two reasons. Firstly, Lizzie Mee has a wonderful way with illustrations. The colours and shapes of the pebbles and other treasures on the beach reflect the sun and the clouds in the bright, summery sky in a way that is inexplicably satisfying to both child and adult. The artwork reminds me a little of the alchemical pictures inspired by the Mutus Liber, in that one feels oneself being changed and lifted by them. The bright innocence of sunshine-yellow days and the dreamy gentleness of blue and pink evenings created by Mee make a wonderful setting for this story in which Herm learns about his world and learns to get along with his sister and friends.

The second reason I am recommending this book is its appeal to adults. Little people benefit so much from stories they can enjoy with big people - but only if the big people are really enjoying the read, so I seek out childrens' books that offer something to adults as well, and this is definitely one of them. I was not surprised to learn that the book was inspired by a visit to Guernsey. The book ends with a picture-map glowing with rural peace, which will set adults off dreaming of a visit to the place where Herman found his stone.

'Herman's Stone' is ฃ4.99 and can be bought direct from Ragged Raven

More small press and independent book reviews at Booksy

Kay Green's story collection 'Jung's People', first published by Elastic Press, is now available from Circaidy Gregory Press

Writer, editor and English teacher, Kay Green is a lifelong lover of story in all its forms. Her collection 'Jung's People' was first published by Elastic Press and is now available from Circaidy Gregory Press. Kay also runs the Writers and Reviewers club at Earlyworks Press, which she founded for the promotion of independent writers and illustrators. The club has a private online forum for developing stories and poetry and 'enclaves' around the UK where like-minded writers get together for workshopping and discussion, and to organise book fairs and other activities.