It began one morning in late summer, when a pheasant appeared at my studio window. At first, I was startled - "but my surprise quickly turned to delight when I noticed he was wearing a top hat, pulled down quite low.
I hurried to the door, hoping to catch a glimpse of him as he fled. But to my astonishment, when I opened it, he was standing there on the mat. There was a pause. He looked me over, blinked - and then, he began to speak.
He introduced himself as Vernon Cotterill and asked if I would be willing to paint his portrait, an offer I joyfully accepted, and that, my friends, is how this whole adventure began.
What did I think?
What an absolutely delightful book! All Feathers and Hats is an illustrated book that is aimed at readers aged 6 to adult and it's a book that everyone will enjoy. If you think it looks stunning from the outside, just wait until you see inside. The illustrations are exquisite and they seem to capture the very essence of the characters themselves.
Jayne Siroshton has both imaginatively written and beautifully illustrated the book showing there is no end to her creative talent. Jayne is also a character in the book which adds an air of authenticity and makes you believe that it could be real...if you believe in talking animals of course and who doesn't?
Vernon Cotterill, a hat wearing pheasant, appears at Jayne's door one day asking her to paint his portrait. Vernon is so pleased with the result that it isn't long before other animals are appearing at Jayne's door. As well as lots of fun elements to the story, there's also a sprinkling of romance that is simply lovely.
All Feathers and Hats has the feel of a timeless, ageless classic and it's the first book in a series so there are more delightful tales to come. Jayne Siroshton reminds me of a modern-day Enid Blyton and I wouldn't be surprised to find Rookscroft books on myriad bookshelves for many years to come.
A very highly recommended read for readers of all ages. I certainly plan to read it again and it is going straight onto my favourites shelf.
I received a gifted hardback to read and review for the Love Books Tours blog tour and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
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