Believe: A World Where Magic Still Hides ...
Should you require a comprehensive guide to mythical and magical creatures, Believe’s knowledgeable narrator, Sage Brightwing, is here to help! Doyle’s obvious affection for fantasy characters in combination with Hartas’s vivid, colourful illustrations results in a book with an absorbing level of detail.
Each category of fantastical beings is introduced by five rhyming verses which provide descriptions, characteristics and useful advice should the reader encounter such a creature as they go about their business. The verses, which come alive when read aloud, are placed on a two page spread slightly overpacked with illustrations of each ‘variety’ of that category of creature. This is followed by descriptions with a high level of detail keeps the reader interested without overwhelming them or to avoid wearying those who are not full believers. The inclusion of creatures from the folklore and fairytales of many countries, as well as creatures of legend, is likely to appeal to a wide range of readers offering a wide array of options from mythical squids to trickster goblins – the yokai are this reviewer’s favourite!
This book is certain to satisfy younger readers who are ready for a more involved reading experience within the comforting familiarity of the picturebook format. A belief in magic, or openness to its existence, is at the heart of this book. Appealingly executed, it will be enjoyed by readers with a sense of wonder, however old they may be.
