Madam Badabedeh and the old bones

Sophie Dahl (text) and Lauren O’Hara (illustrator), Madame Badobedah and the Old Bones, Walker, October 2023, 48 pp., RRP $27.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781406384420

Madame Badobedah and the Old Bones is a charming new children’s book by Sophie Dahl and Lauren O’Hara. This is the second in the stylish series, with the original Madame Badobedah released in 2019. With glorious illustrations and lyrical text, the book is reminiscent of a classic children’s book, sitting somewhere between a picture book and a short story.

Mabel is a young adventurer who lives with her parents in the picturesque Mermaid Hotel. It’s a place filled to the brim with secrets and intriguing guests, including an opera-singing dame, a three-toed pygmy sloth and the resident Mrs Badobedah; ancient villain and Mabel’s best friend. Curious Mabel finds a fascinating companion in Madame Badobedah, whose life is filled with daring adventures that rival those of famous explorers. This sequel sees the pair searching for treasure, returning a ‘borrowed’ emerald, befriending dinosaurs, and finding inspiration in adventurous women from history.

Sophie Dahl’s playful storytelling captures the essence of adventure, whimsy, and imagination. It invites children to dream and adults to reminisce about their own youthful curiosity. Readers, particularly young girls, are encouraged to be bold, curious, and authentic. The story reminds us that, despite creaking knees, age is no barrier to adventure, and the bond between Mabel and Madame Badobedah illustrates the beauty of intergenerational friendship.

Lauren O’Hara’s artful illustrations complement the story wonderfully, bringing the characters and their adventures to life. The soft, warm palette adds depth to the narrative and welcomes the reader into the story.

This is a very special book which would make a fabulous gift for a child aged 6+.

Reviewed by Laura Holloway

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