Aldo (Red Fox picture books)

From the Publisher
A touching portrait of a solitary child with an imaginary friend called Aldo, a rabbit just about her size, who can be counted upon to turn up‘when things get really bad.’

For more than four decades, John Burningham has written one award–winning book after another. With their luminous illustrations, gently ironic text, and their genius in capturing the nuances of everyday life from a child’s perspective, they are relished by children (and grownups) the world over. Whether his theme is imaginary friends or picky eaters, fitting in or the triumph of the underdog, Burningham always recognizes that particular wisdom exclusive to children (and so elusive to adults), making his books instantly appealing to young readers. The author of more than 30 books, Burningham has won awards on both sides of the Atlantic, including the Kate Greenaway Medal (twice), the Kurt Maschler Award, the New York Times Best Illustrated Book (three times), and the Boston Globe–Horn Book Award. In addition, his books have appeared on the national television series Reading Rainbow and, year after year, are on school, library, and booksellers’ recommended reading lists. Now newly republished, the books presented here are among the classics of children’s literature.

Publishers Weekly
Aldo, a tall, scarf-wearing rabbit, must be kin to the inimitable Harvey of stage and screen fame. He not only comes to the rescue of this book’s narrator when she is dispirited, he also makes troublemakers and nightmares disappear and takes her to “wonderful places.” The two walk on a tightrope stretched over the rooftops, go ice- skating and take a ride in a rowboat. Finally, she concedes that some days she forgets all about her pal, “but I know that if things get really bad . . . Aldo will always be there.” The stark, at times bland renditions of the girl sans Aldo–forlorn against ample white backgrounds–contrast sharply with the pictures depicting their shared adventures. In these Burningham superimposes the light figures against abstract, often dark-toned paintings. The effect is forceful, though it may prove somewhat alarming to younger readers. In Burningham’s visionary take on the imaginary friend theme, his visuals are more striking than the minimal text, which lacks the verve of his Hey! Get Off Our Train . Ages 3-7. (Mar.)