Tori-Jay Mordey, In the City I See (Young Art series), Magabala Books, Feb 2018, 14pp., $9.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781925360790
In the notable Young Art series that showcases young indigenous artists, this neat little board book will spark all manner of conversations with early readers and pre-schoolers. It can be used to count, to describe colour, to talk about your own walk around town. Mordey takes an observer’s view of a city; a collection of passers-by, some pets, pigeons, buskers and buildings all depicted in succulent fun paint tones against the white of the page. Bold two-word coloured text labels each group and is well suited to the quirky illustration style. Each page spread shows aspects of daily urban life from different angles – literally as well as metaphorically – with a clear inclusion of the indigenous content in modern Australian city life. The book’s simplicity invites the reader to contribute more in their own storytelling and encourages questioning. Suitable for 2 – 5 year olds.
Reviewed by Liz Anelli
