American author Kate DiCamillo can always be relied on to deliver an engrossing story that touches the heart. She is the author of numerous prize-winning titles such as The Tale of Despereaux, Ferris, Because of Winn-Dixie and more.
The Hotel Balzaar, the follow up to The Puppets of Spelhorst (which I haven’t read and must get!) is a stand-alone novella about Marta, living alone with her mother in a busy hotel, desperately hoping and wishing that her missing soldier father will return. She occupies her time chatting with the bellman, watching a cat chase a mouse around a grandfather’s clock and looking at a favourite painting. When a mysterious countess checks in, promising to tell her seven stories her wishes, hopes and dreams subtly change in positive ways.
This is a beautifully told story about hope, grief and the enduring power of love tempered by gentle humour. It is also about the power of story and storytellers. DiCamillo, herself just as impressive a storyteller as the countess, if not more so, spins a powerful tale that gradually unfolds building on each story told by the enigmatic countess.
The illustrations are marvels of witty restraint, black and white fluid line effortlessly extending the characters and the setting while establishing a ‘folk tale set in the real world’ atmosphere.
This is perfect for children aged 7+ who enjoy emotionally engaging stories set in other worlds, worlds carefully calibrated to be a little bit strange but also familiar in many ways.
American author Kate DiCamillo can always be relied on to deliver an engrossing story that touches the heart. She is the author of numerous prize-winning titles such as The Tale of Despereaux, Ferris, Because of Winn-Dixie and more.
