In a world filled with magic, possibilities abound. Whether anthropomorphic animals are interacting with humans, kings and queens are having a party, or mythical creatures are flying through the air, whimsy and intrigue make all things possible. And as one travels through this mystical landscape, resonant questions rise to the surface, inspiring inquiry into both the known world and the world that could be. This poetic picture book is filled with curiosity both on the part of the narrator and on that of the reader. Limited text utilizes rhyming and a practiced meter to invite readers to consider a wide range of hypothetical questions. From the more realistic to the highly speculative, these questions are ones that readers of all ages will appreciate having the opportunity to wonder about. Despite the fact that these phrases are relatively brief, however, the profound nature of the questioning makes the book mature beyond its initial appearance and therefore approachable for a wide range of ages. The whimsical and imaginative illustrations beg thoughtful reflection on each page.
Using realistic techniques to depict humans and animals, the images turn the predictable into the unexpected in myriad ways. Sometimes, the illustrations reflect the poetry within the text, while in other instances elements of the imagery are devoid of textual context and readers are invited to develop stories of their own as a result. With a first person narrator, a poetic design, and exquisitely detailed illustrations, this book is a contemporary homage to classic picture books and is appealing to both children and their caregivers. This is a unique and thought provoking addition to library collections for young readers and their families.