Robert Hunter's sumptuous and luxurious hardback illustrated version of the classic Kipling tale is a feast for the eyes as we delve into the deep dark story of mancub Mowgli and his companions Baloo and Bagheera.
Keeping a polite distance from the classic animated Disney movie (though Mowgli in this version does look a LOT like the animated Mowgli), Robert has taken the original classic and put his own modern stamp on it.
Here, Mowgli is raised on the streets of Mumbai by a pack of street dogs. The urban landscape is his home with all the other animals but as he grows older Mowgli realises that the playground of his youth is also a deadly and dark place.
Under threat by the mysterious and deadly Shere Khan, Mowgli must confront his own fears and stand his ground against a backdrop of wonders and dangers.
It's almost intoxicating how we got so drawn into this book, and the modern retelling handled with due homage paid to Kipling's dark and heady work. It works beautifully, and it's a true feast for the eyes as Mowgli's destiny unfolds. If (like me) you're always encouraging your children to step away from Disney's versions of stories to take a look at the original tales that inspired them, take a side step towards this version which stands tall as a wholly original take on The Jungle Book, establishing itself as a thoroughly absorbing piece of work in its own right.
Charlotte's favourite bit: The thrilling and climactic confrontation between Mowgli and Shere Khan as Mowgli finds his inner strength.
Daddy's favourite bit: A truly original and refreshing take on a darkly delicious classic tale. We're usually not fans of classics being respun but this is truly impressive and immersive stuff!
(Kindly sent to us for review by Frances Lincoln Children's Books)
"The Jungle Book"
Written and Illustrated by Robert Hunter (based on Rudyard Kipling's book)
Published by Frances Lincoln Children's Books
Publication Date (Hardback): 3rd March 2016