Willy's Stories

In this story, Willy shares what happens when he walks through the library doors and explores the world of books and stories waiting inside. Throughout the book, Willy imagines himself into a number of his favourite stories - classics like 'Peter Pan', 'Robinson Crusoe' and 'Treasure Island' and fairy tales like 'Rapunzel' and 'The Tinderbox'. Each double spread has a page of text facing an illustration showing Willy in the thick of the action. This is a book that works very successfully on a number of levels. Younger children would probably not be familiar with many of the stories included; however, this would not stop them enjoying each of Willy's adventures and sharing their ideas about the questions posed at the end of each page. Nor would it prevent them poring over each illustration and squealing with delight as they find details - like the books that are cunningly hidden in full sight in each picture. Older children may approach the book in a different way, using their prior knowledge of the stories and appreciating the humour Anthony Browne brings to them. Any of the spreads might act as a starting point to kindle interest in a story the children are not yet familiar with, inspiring them to read the original. It is also a text that can be used for igniting writing ideas. Certain illustrations in particular - The Wild Wood and The Tinderbox, for example - really lend themselves to exploration, vocabulary gathering, poetry writing. Others lend themselves to a re-imagined ending or twist to the tale. The format of the book is also perfect for encouraging the children to work similar magic with a favourite book of their own. If I had the talent, I would draw Willy with the family at Number One, 1, End Street, at Hogwarts with Harry or challenging Yuk with Hercufleas! 32 pages / Ages 7+ / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher.

Suggested Reading Age 3+