Ashleigh Barton (text) & Martina Heiduczek (Illustrator), What do you call your Dad?, Harper Collins, July 2024, 32 pp., $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9780733343476
This beautiful picture book is a reminder of the special place that’s held in our hearts for our parents – and in this case it’s Dad. This offers a warm and sensitive story of the many names for Dad from all around the world.
In every country around the world are dads – some short, some tall.
Though they go by different names, we love them one and all.
Each carefully structured rhyming stanza captures the essence of the special relationship between the child and their father. Little things that make the relationship unique are skilfully highlighted by the precise choice of vocabulary found in each verse. Overall, this beautifully crafted story is a reminder of the special bonds that are forged in our childhood for those who willingly gave us their time, love, and focussed attention. It is a celebration of fatherhood, of parenthood, of friendship and above all unconditional love.
From bestselling duo Ashleigh Barton and Martina Heiduczek comes an intimate and charming picture book that captures the relationship between father and child. It includes a cross-section of cultures from every corner of the globe, and thus it is an inclusive representation and sensitive insight into the many ways we say Dad. This follows other books in the series that explore grandmas, grandpas and love.
The illustrations are engaging and bright and complement the text admirably. There is much to discuss regarding the geographical detail, architecture and written text peculiar to each country, depicted in the illustrations, which also provide clues for the reader to predict the global location of the characters.
A wonderful book to present as a gift to a beloved Dad or father figure on any day of the year. What do you call your Dad? will most certainly become a cherished family picture book to be enjoyed by all.
Recommended for ages 3+
Reviewed by Julie Deane
