About the Book and Author and illustrator
This exquisitely illustrated story by Dutch writer and artist Octavia Wolters is a work of art. It follows the story of a starling who wants the world to share his song.
The black and white line-cut illustrations are striking and very detailed as you can see in the photographs further down this post.
The designers at Pushkin Press have been creative with the written language. Their choice of choice of type-face and settings for the text of the story make a simply beautiful publication in a high quality hardback edition that would be as appropriate for an exclusive art gallery a a children’s bookshelf.
Octavie Wolters is a writer and artist, mainly working in lino and woodcut. The Starling’s Song won a Dutch Silver Paintbrush award, was shortlisted for the Jan Wouters Award and longlisted for the World Illustration Award. This book is published in the UK by Pushkin Press.
Book Review
My favourite page is the one with the reflections
This book is great! I loved the first page with all the birds drawn together in black and white and I recognised quite a few different types of bird. I also love the size of this book. It’s big with large drawings on each page.
My favourite page is the one with the reflections. It’s got a kingfisher looking into water and the pictures and the words are upside down as if reflected in the water, making the words look like a different language, very clever.
The Starling’s song changed as he spoke to different birds and it made me think of nature and how special it is.
In the end it all came together like a beautiful poem.
Page Preview
If you would would like to buy a copy of the book we invite you to order it from your local independent book shop.
Or, you can shop on-line and support our Kids Reviews page by sourcing your discounted book via this link
Alternatively, we suggest that you visit your local library and request to borrow a copy from a friendly librarian.
Whichever you choose, we hope you enjoy being part of your unique reading community – happy reading everyone!
Reviewer Profile
- Name: Ila
- Age: 5 years
- Likes: Strawberries and ice-cream
- Dislikes: Chilli and onions
- Favourite book: The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter
- Favourite Song: The Fairy Song
- Favourite Film: Sing!
