For when the sun blows you its last kiss goodbye, and the moon wanders in to watch over the sky … then the enchantment begins.
What happens after you’ve had a wonderful day on the beach and the sun goes down? Well, sand sprites come out to splash in the waves, play in the sandcastles that you built and frolic in rockpools. When daylight comes around, because they have all drifted off to sleep, you won’t hear or see them … or will you?
Sheila Knaggs, winner of the 2019 Scribbles Creative Writing Award, has written a magical poem that will capture the imagination of those who believe, or wish to believe, in the enchanted world of tiny creatures. Her superb use of rhyme, rhythm and alliteration transports you to a magical, musical realm hidden on the Australian beach.
Jennifer Falkner, has a passion for the flora and fauna of the Australian beach and bush. Her water-colour illustrations depict the warmth and happiness of a day at the beach and then the watery coolness of the evening. The sprites are simple but you can see unique plants and animals reflected in their shape, clothes and wings. Their miniature size is recognized by the contrast with a thong, sunglasses or bucket left on the beach.
With lovely endpapers and pink-silver embossing on the cover, this book is beautifully produced.
I enjoyed this story and it must be read aloud. It will be wonderful for the recommended age of 2 – 7years and for anyone who enjoys a delightful poem. However, for me, the title “Fairy Beach” and the pink embossing may lose part of the audience that would and should enjoy this foray into their imagination.