Thursday, July 13, 2017

Review: The Grumpface by B.C.R. Fegan


THE GRUMPFACE
by B.C.R. Fegan
Illustrated by D. Frongia
TaleBlade
Picture Book/Fairy Tale
ages 4+
32 pages




The Grumpface is a poetic fairy-tale that tells the story of Dan, an inventor who ventures into a forest looking for a rose. Instead he finds the mysterious Grumpface who threatens to hold him captive unless he passes some difficult challenges. What follows is a humorous adventure that neither Dan nor the Grumpface could have anticipated.

The Grumpface is a tale in the spirit of any grand adventure. It is about a clumsy young inventor's quest for love and the challenges he must face to find it. It is also a tale of bravery, absurdity and happiness, and the power of these qualities over negativity and sheer grumpiness.

Every parent will be acquainted with their own little 'grumpface' now and then. This story stands as a small piece of hope - that no matter how ingrained the grump, there will always remain in every one of us a smile or a laugh just waiting to come out.



MY TIDBITS

With the whirl of a fairy tale, this book pits the grumpiest of grumps against a man that just might make him giggle.

Grumpface was once a normal man. . .or so they say. He was so grumpy that he was placed under a curse. Whenever travelers run across him, they are taken captive and must complete one of three tasks to gain their freedom again. But when a very clumsy traveler happens across, a strange end awaits Grumpface.

I love the cover on this one and the illustrations of Grumpface. His trolly glare hits hard, making it clear just how grumpy this guy is. The illustrations in general are bright and bold, and bring the story across nicely. The text is rhymed and sits alongside the illustrations to create an easy read aloud. Young listeners will quickly understand what's going on and sink into the tale. The message is clear as Grumpface starts to smirk, although the humor isn't exaggerated and remains, in most cases, more mild.

The fairy tale brings a little adventure, a little humor and a clear message. Children ages 4 and up are a fitting audience for this one.





And here he is. . .

BCR Fegan is an Australian author who has written a number of fairy tales and fantasies for children and young adults. He is inspired by stories that resonate deeply with our desire for adventure, yearning for magic and search for meaning.







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