Review: A Norendy Tale: The Puppets of Spelhorst


Fate and circumstance are curious things that can set storytelling wheels in motion with the most extraordinary outcomes. From the dexterous mind and unfathomable imaginings of Kate DiCamillo comes a new, spellbindingly illustrated fiction that bewitches and bemuses.

Five exquisite puppets each with a personality and power peculiar to their maker’s whimsy are locked in a trunk after their former master forsakes them, their story and himself. And that is where their real story begins. An adventure, a quest, a parody of unfortunate near disasters, twists and awkward turns that involves each of the puppets in turn and ultimately as a one for they are all in the same story. Of this they are certain and so vow to each other to remain in the telling until the end.

Their journey evokes wonder in simple beauties that are easily overlooked; the colour of moonlight through an open window for instance. The vagaries of misguided vanity. The heartbreak of unrequited expectations. And like the most confounding and enchanting of dreams within dreams, this story within in a story is told in acts befitting a splendid stage production, which most satisfyingly, the puppets themselves become part of.

DiCamillo’s ability to weave nuance and meaning into the most intricate story tapestries is beyond considerable. It is simply incredible. And believable. Logic rubs shoulders with incongruous absurdities. Storylines melt into a rich alchemy of obvious yet intelligible fantasy that young readers will have no difficulty in recognising nor trusting. Julie Morstad’s pencil lined drawings bring the King, the Wolf, the Girl, the Boy and the Owl to life which lovers of illustrated fiction (like me) will appreciate but the heart that beats beneath this wistful affected tale is strong and assured on its own encouraging repeat readings and poignant discoveries.

This Norendy Tale of adventure and destiny is a captivating experience of love, loyalties and how the time in between life’s comings and goings is too short to waste. So, don’t.

Title:  A Norendy Tale: The Puppets of Spelhorst
Author:  Kate DiCamillo
Illustrator: Julie Morstad
Publisher:  Walker Books Australia, 24.99
Publication Date:  14 October 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781529512854
For ages:  7 – 10
Type:  Junior Fiction

Buy the Book: Walker Books Australia, Boomerang Books

 

 

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