If you were a horse, what would you do? Would you run across the countryside under a golden sun and roll in the mud when the rain starts to fall? Would you give a sibling a lift to school or take a dip in the pool? At home, would you eat whenever you wanted? Would you wear clothes? Would you sleep in a bed? And would your brother even notice? Life as a horse is wonderful and glorious… Sophie Blackall creates beautiful picture books and If I Was a Horse is another absolute gem that is first past the winners’ post. It is a story for every kid that has ever dreamed of being something else, who dream of escaping the confines of human life and for those, that like Sophie’s son who provided the words to inspire, want to gallop all day. This is horseplay of the absolute best kind. In minimal text and rich illustrations Sophie captures the joys of play, the wonder of childhood imagination and the magic of make-believe as across one glorious day a young child visualises their life as a horse. Each page is a visual feast with individual scenes telling their own stories and inviting the reader in with so many little details to explore. The bathroom, the brother’s room and the living room parade are personal favourites. Taking in the family home, the local neighbourhood and the countryside, the very large horse goes about the day with joyous abandon where life’s simple pleasures - such as eating whenever you like, being outside, rolling in the mud, not having to bathe and not wearing clothes - are gloriously celebrated. Children will love imagining the pros and cons of being a horse, or other animal, and what they might get up to for a day.
Whimsical and wonderful! A must have for any young child who loves horses and sure to bring smiles to those little ones who have big imaginations and dream of making the impossible possible just for one day. Perfect for story time…saddle up! Recommended for 2+. With huge thanks to Hachette and Lothian for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.
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