When I sit to write out a draft of a review of The Magical, Wonderful Bul Bul Bird by Jonathan Kruk and illustrator Rob Bridges, I have trouble finding the right words. After mentioning that the book is a rich story, with elegant illustrations that are keeping with traditional inspiration and modern sensibilities making what the author and illustrator made an interesting experience to read. Well,that is pretty much it.
One could mention that the book is longer than the usual picture book, but I am assuming it is a picture book as I read it via an online reader, allowing me to not have a good idea of the size and shape of the final product. Thankfully it is currently available so you can find a copy for yourself and learn that information. I guess, I should say the story is about patience, paying attention to those around you, family, loneliness and understanding.
There is magic and realism blended to make a fairytale. The included background information explains the inspiration for Kruk’s adaptation of an original folk tale as interesting as the actual story. It allows for the adult to have both story and history.
Best for ages at least five and up. Five is for the child who can sit for a few pages at a time and the up could be as old as 10 or 11 though I do wonder if it is a picture book that might discourage the older reader, yet the text and length is for the older end of that scale. It is not an easy book to read or digest. There are not “scary or too much” sections, but it can be a bit packed with much in the way of concepts not for the too young or sensitive reader.
