The Storyteller's Almanac by Elise Hurst

The first weeks of the year usually mean more time to read, since that's when our colder weather normally hits. Notice the words 'usually' and 'normally', since this year seems to be playing to its own beat with big temperature swings and no sign of the subzero temps, yet. Although I'm beginning to wonder if I'm going to have to start more work outside on the farm again (I'm innerly screaming 'not yet!'), that reading pile stands waiting for me to pick today's read up.

Today's read is one I'm not sure will be good or not. I enjoy the illustrated cover but am a little lost as to the direction it will take. I'm getting short story vibes, but the blurb doesn't really hint at that direction. Instead, it should be a wordless journey, so my interest is piqued. 

Let's just jump in and see what's inside.

(Note after reading: Elise Hurst might now be one of my favorite illustrators.)

THE STORYTELLER'S ALMANAC

by Elise Hurst

Compendium

Children's Fantasy

128 pages

ages 4 and up

COMING JANUARY 20th!!!

This is an invitation to latch on to your imagination, and let it take you on an exciting ride to the extraordinary. The Storyteller's Almanac is your creative companion in unlocking new doors to your imagination and seeing where they might lead.

Created by award-winning illustrator Elise Hurst, this captivating wordless picture book features 50 richly detailed illustrations to explore. There are imaginative places to visit, mythological creatures to meet, and amazing adventures waiting for you. But the story of these illustrations is yours to create.

Open the pages at bedtime, on a road trip, or as a creative writing exercise. And when you need a little extra inspiration, there's a scavenger hunt included to help spot hidden details to fuel your storytelling journey.

Where will your stories take you? That's up to you!

It's a resource you'll reach for again and again--whether you're:
- A child discovering new ways to play and imagine
- A parent looking to connect and create with your child
- A teacher seeking thoughtful story starters for the classroom
- Someone creative searching for a fresh spark of inspiration

GOODREADS     /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Get ready to enter a world of imagination and let those dreams fly because these pages will take you on a  journey not easily left behind.

These pages hold sheer delight for fantasy fans' eyes. The scenes take different directions with each turn of the page, inviting to new stories and possibilities each time. All hold a touch of fantasy. Some twist familiar moments with a tinge of wonder, while others open up with places that only exist in tales. There are short poems sprinkled in between, only a few here and there, which seem to unlock a new door of thought, each time. These are short, pointed, and only appear every now and then to let the illustrations remain the main theme throughout.

The artist uses lighter colors, many careful strokes, and whimsical details to let the eyes sink into each moment. The creativity blossoms and blooms as every flip of the page opens up to a new world. It's hard not to stop and gaze at each one as individual tales come to life. Many hold animal figures with human-like attributes but not in the cutesy way. Instead, there's hints of rich adventure with each one. 

This book works well with almost all age groups, since it invites in with scenes which are sure to grab children and imagination-minded adults alike. Not only are the illustrations calming, but also inspiring. I could even see this used in classrooms or group settings...and by homeschoolers...to inspire writing sessions as well. I will be placing this one on my own bookshelf and have no doubt it will be pulled out again and again over the years by all sorts of hands.

And here she is...

Elise Hurst is a Melbourne-based illustrator, fine artist and author, specialising in children's books. She works in a vintage alternate reality, creating characters we feel we know and worlds we would like to inhabit.