Mango and Bamban The Not-a-Pig
ISBN13
9781406361438
Review published
11/10/2015
By Reviewer
Lizi
Star Rating
By Author / Illustrator
Polly Faber
Age range(s)
7+
Review
This is a collection of short, quaint stories about a young girl (Mango) who discovers a Tapir trying to hide himself on a zebra crossing. The text is easy to follow and has some good, old fashioned themes - of friendship and bravery - set in a more modern, humorous background. The book reminded me a little of the Milly-Molly-Mandy books I enjoyed so much as a child; this felt like an up-to-date version, with a funny little animal as one of the central characters. Mango lives with her father and the stories follow her life after discovering her Tapir and trying to integrate him into her life. It's a charming tale which is very simple and would appeal to a wide audience of children, probably being more popular with girls who like characters who have gumption! Aesthetically, the book is wonderful! It's delightful to hold in your hands; it's smooth, beautifully illustrated and the candied purple and white stripes reminded me of old fashioned sweet shop bags! I enjoyed reading this book, there's nothing ground-breaking about it, but it's just enjoyable. It makes you smile and would make a wonderful gift for a reluctant reader - there's not too much text on each page and the pictures are wonderful. 144 pages / Ages 7+ / Reviewed by Lizi Coombs, teacher.