Amelia McInerney (author), and Alexandra Colombo (illustrator), Jeff Giraffe: The Great Escape, Larrikin House, March 2024, RRP $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781922804655
Before the reader even gets to the first page the title and cover illustration of this rhyming picture book suggests they will be in for a rollicking ride. When Jeff the Giraffe and Roger the seal plan to make a daredevil escape from their zoo enclosure to the playground beyond using carefully illustrated pictures, walkie-talkies and secret language such as ‘code three’ to communicate, what could possibly go wrong?
Playful, bold illustrations by Alexandra Colombo cleverly enhance and extend the humour of Amelia McInerney’s verse; font size and colour indicating the different voices and expression with rhyme instilling the joy of language play. McInerney’s nod to the language of spy/ detective novels and films will entertain the adult reader adding to the fun of the shared reading experience.
Great for home or school library.
Suitable 3+.
Reviewed by Mem Capp
