Thursday, 8 March 2012

Gary and Ray by Sarah Adams


January 2012, Frances Lincoln
36 pages, Paperback
Review copy

Themes: jungle life, family, friendships, loneliness, sense of belonging, trust, short disappointments, love

Summary from Frances Lincoln 
Gary the gorilla is the only animal in the jungle who is lonely - all the other animals seem to have companions, and even the people of the village are frightened of him so stay well away. But one day a tiny sunbird thinks he looks so sad that he ventures to talk to him. Soon this unlikely pair are best of friends, so Gary is very upset when one day Ray doesn't show up as usual.

Nayuleska's thoughts
I love the cheery feel from the vibrant illustrations, which gave me hope that somehow Gary wouldn't be lonely for too long. I liked how the animals all look in Gary's direction when he's on his own. They care about him but just don't know how to help-except for Ray who teaches Gary and readers that all is not always as it seems. This gets a firm 10/10 from me.

Suggested reading

For another book involving a colourful bird, check out Peely Wally by Kali Stileman


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