Finally a review about a book that is currently out and you do not have to wait a year (okay five months) for! Why Are We Afraid? is billed as a children’s book. However, the more mature theme and the slightly adult illustrations make this story not for the very young or sensitive reader. Frank Fran Pintadera’s story is interesting, and for the right reader, an interesting exploration of fears, but not easy to work with.
Overall, the theme of fear done in a poetic manner is unique. The developed nature of the theme is clever, but as I said, is not for everyone. And while I appreciate the work that goes into the illustrations, they were both lovely and odd. Ana Sender has an interpretation of things that is both realistic and abstract. The fathers long, triangular face, reminiscent of Rasputian. The boy’s bushy eyebrows and “just got out of bed or a wind tunnel” hair. Earthy, and darker tones for colors setting a deeper tone to things. All of this comes together for a modern story, about an old school concept, fear. There are also elements of classic, old world folklore, but is a story about the whys we have, or might have, fear.
After learning that both author and illustrator are from Spain (several days after reading and while I was writing my draft of this review), I was wondering how much of this unique sound to the story comes from not being an American author and how much comes from translations that are sometimes not always fluid to my ears? Regardless of any bumps I had, this is a good book and I do recommend it. Just know your reader.
