It seems strange to think that we somehow missed one of the most important books of the last 30 years. Yes, it's really been that long since Janet and Allan Ahberg's stunning "Each Peach Pear Plum" became a mainstay of just about every child's bookshelf, the sort of book that receives glowing recommendations from just about every bookish person out there.
A gorgeously rhyming beautifully illustrated book that invites youngsters to play a game of I Spy in a fantasy land of nursery rhyme and fairy story folk, all contributing to a tale that flows so absolutely perfectly that it's a delight to encounter it once again.
We used to borrow this book from our local Library almost on a weekly basis, with each copy very well loved (quite often torn, tattered or drawn in but dutifully replaced by our library from time to time).
Janet Ahlberg is such a sorely missed talent, she was without doubt one of the most incredible illustrator-storytellers and along with her husband Allan contributed to many books that drew C into a love of books very early on.
There's so much detail in each spread, such a lovingly crafted use of language.
Books like this come along so rarely, and when they do it's not difficult to see why they become so memorable and treasured.
Absolutely love this.
C's best bit: "Mother Hubbard in the Cellar, I Spy Cinderella!"
Daddy's favourite bit: One of the BEST witches in any book, ever!
"Each Peach Pear Plum (Anniversary Edition)" is out now, published by Picture Puffin (kindly supplied for review).