Parmesan the Reluctant Racehorse

by Jacqui Halpin

illustrated by John Phillips

Little Pink Dog Books 2017 32 pp hardback $21.66 ISBN 9780994626929

This picture book for young children is about Parmesan the reluctant racehorse who actually thinks he is a dog. Both his parents are famous and successful racehorses but Parmesan has no interest in racing, he likes to stretch, lick, dig, beg, sniff and fetch like a dog. This becomes a problem when his owner wants to race him but an ingenious solution overcomes Parmesan’s reluctance and all ends happily.

This charming story makes its point through repetition, well-positioned illustrations and carefully placed text. The illustrations are cartoon like with a variety of expressive detail. The colours throughout are bright and cheerful. This book would appeal to all children who enjoy animal stories and ingenuous endings.

Reviewed by Mia Macrossan