Jon Klassen is a master storyteller, his ‘hat series’ are some of my favourite picture books ever. Deliciously dark and wickedly macabre, The Skull - a reworking of a Tyrolean folktale - will capture a new and slightly older audience. Otilla knew the forest well, it was, of course, where she had grown up. After running further into the forest than she has ever gone before she stumbles upon an old, abandoned house. But the house isn’t empty, it is home to a skull. The kind and quirky occupant is the perfect host, inviting Otilla in, showing her around and offering her a bed for the night. In return she helps the skull rediscover the taste of pears, the flavours of tea and the joys of dancing. All is good. But the skull has a secret. It is tormented by a headless skeleton who wants to claim it for themselves. And later that night, when the skeleton comes calling to claim their prize, it is up to Otilla to save both herself and her new friend… Delightfully eerie and hauntingly beautiful, The Skull is a gorgeously illustrated and captivatingly told story. Revelling in strangeness and creepiness, mild horror is perfectly balanced with gentleness and warmth, making for a narrative that although spooky is not in the least bit scary. Packed full of Klassen’s razor sharp wit and wry humour and with the demise of a skeleton that will be cheered by young readers, this old folktale made new is brilliant stuff. Told over five parts - perfect for reading and sharing over the course of a week, the quirky exploration of friendship, loyalty and bravery in the face of adversity would make for an excellent Halloween read. Probably a classic in waiting and one that will happily haunt the minds of readers long after the last page has been read.
Recommended for 7+. With huge thanks to Walker for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.
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