“…Kato’s story could be a sombre one, considering that for his whole life Uganda has been in the midst of a civil war in which children were abducted and terrorized to fight for the rebel forces. But, while not ignoring the presence of armed soldiers, A Good Trade accepts the unrest and horror as only one aspect of Uganda. There are also the gardens, hills, trails, fields with cattle, and villages with neighbours and children. And those who offer help.
…I believe that the pairing of Alma Fullerton’s text with Karen Patkau’s art style in A Good Trade is inspired. It’s almost as if Karen Patkau’s art was destined to evoke the landscape and story of Uganda. Her sultry skies alone capably recreate the shimmering heat of an African day.
Whatever forces, human or supernatural, that brought together these two artists, one of words and the other of graphics, knew exactly what they were doing. There’s gratitude all around here: from Kato, from picture book lovers, from compassionate readers.”
–HelenK
Click here to read the full review