Author Archive

“In brief, straightforward sentences and soft pastel illustrations, Dufft depicts strategies that young Morgan uses to face his nighttime fears….The soft hazy amber tones of the illustrations perfectly enhance Morgan’s playful antics and night-flight fantasy. Morgan and his storyline are both reminiscent of Sendak’s infamous Max. A wonderful selection for children suffering from nighttime fears. Recommended.” […]

“What did you like about the book? Morgan has a tall Robin Hood hat and a wooden sword. He is ‘wild and fierce and frightening.’ But at night Morgan is still afraid of robbers until his Nana brings him a stuffed lion. And, as with Calvin with his Hobbes, Morgan dreams of the adventures he and […]

“Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 4.5 What did you like about the book? It’s time to bake! A little girl is going to show her little brother how. Aprons, big bowl, measuring cups, spoons and ingredients. Very expressive digitally created watercolor illustrations accompanied by very large bold typeface create a very endearing story…. […]

“Small Things is one of those tremendous reads that is an experience…Mel Tregonning’s Small Things, a wordless graphic picture book, is all at once superbly illustrated, unforgettable, extremely emotionally resonant, beautiful, heartbreaking, and hopeful all at once. Far too often I have had conversations with a parent or caregiver at the library who does not see merit in […]

“Why I like this book: Michelle Kadarusman has crafted a richly textured story about [Alba], who has a leg that is directionally challenged. It is a powerful and captivating story about differences and abilities and ‘learning to love who you are and what you can do.’ It is emotionally honest and filled with heart. It […]

“According to parenting and teaching educator Barbara Coloroso, childhood anxiety is an issue facing an alarming number of youth today. The subject is hit head-on in Small Things, an amazing and emotional new wordless graphic picture book for ages 8-12, by Australian artist Mel Tregonning. I received an advance copy from the Canadian publisher Pajama Press. […]

“Rating: E…The clever illustrations are beautifully rendered in water colour and enhance the dreamlike intrepid tone of the story. The picture of Morgan asleep with the full grown lion is especially irresistible. The comforting story encourages young children suffering from nightmares to conquer their fears. Thematic Links: Nightmares; Dreams; Lions; Self-esteem; Grandmothers” —Isobel Lang Read […]

“Rating: G…This wordless book could also be called a beginning graphic novel…. This book represents a positive message of friendship, peace and harmony, which are common themes in Edwards’ work….[A] good exemplar to show children how to create a wordless book (using illustrations to tell a story) as well as a fantastic example of a book […]

“Small Things by Mel Tregonning ($22.95, Pajama Press) is one of the most unique picture books I have read in a while…. In the afterword by Barbara Coloroso, author of Kids Are Worth It, writes ‘Mel Tregonning speaks volumes about childhood anxiety – an issue facing an alarming number of youth today.’… Once I read that afterword, my […]

“Rating: E…The illustrations elevate the simple rhythmic text by showing the child on each succeeding page as the very animal she is imitating with great charm. The watercolour and ink drawings are delightful, appealing and beautifully done. Thematic Links: Imagination; Play; Bedtime” —Isobel Lang Read the full review on page 46 of the February 2018 […]