My brand new picture book "Emma the Eager Emu" should arrive by the end of this week! I'm feeling so excited I can't wait to finally see her in print. It's time to reveal to you the amazing front cover that my wonderful friend an illustrator, Dianna Budd produced from my ramblings. I am so proud to introduce to you Emma the Eager Emu in all her glory as she so well deserves. :)
Emma won her first award as a children's story in an online competition back in 2012 and has been eagerly awaiting to come to life in illustrated form ever since. I am so glad I was fortunate to meet Dianna at another author's book launch about twelve months ago. I sent her the manuscript which she instantly adored. We started talking about options and Emma's journey to illustrated birth began. Below are a few of the reviews Emma received at the time of winning the competition.
REVIEWS.
This story has a wonderfully, well-written allegory that focuses on differences between people (birds) and which teaches us to appreciate those differences. The moral is subtle, and although probably written for a younger audience, it has such a crisp charm that older readers cannot help but to admire the tale.
Each line seemed to flow seamlessly into the next, and I know that is not as easy as it seems. It requires practice and a fair measure of God-given skill to produce.
The writing was quite beautiful in its clarity and simplicity:
"Rosella screeched. Yellow Crested Cockatoo squawked and Pink Galah squealed."
The above is a prime example of what I mean. It is fresh, descriptive and economical and yet when read, it seems full-bodied and charming. The the moral is only a simple one, it is the form and style of your writing that elevates this tale to a high place.
Ah, if we were all as successful as Emma at rationalizing our shortcomings. There are at least a couple ways to approach your tale. To some readers, they will see her "flight" as championing her strengths, while readers that are more cynical, will see it as her glossing over her failures. Not that any of that matters here, for it is the writing itself that is the highlight of this story and that is exceptional. - Tiggy
Cute story. It teaches to never give up, just keep trying and you'll succeed. I love children's stories. I am going to read your story to my granddaughter. She'll love it! - Jeannie
Such a cute tale! I loved reading this! It's a great children's story as it teaches a lesson in a fun way. I like the repetition too. A really great children's story. I really liked the variety of birds you've included in the story. It makes it rather educational for children, I think. I truly enjoyed reading it. - Spidey
What a delightful story - excellent use of personality names and characters in the four different bird varieties.
Excellent repetition of phrasing. Especially in a children's story.
- "One, two, three, look at me, I can fly!"
- "Rosella screeched. Yellow Crested Cockatoo squawked and Pink Galah squealed."
I really like the emphasis placed on all their differences, including appearances, and the persistence to keep trying. Well done and hope to see this beautifully illustrated in the children's department of my local bookstore soon. - Glenda, Country Granny.
It's been a few years, but Glenda might just get her wish yet! "Emma the Eager Emu" will be available for purchase in the next week or two from this website and hopefully a few local bookstores soon too!
"Emma the Eager Emu" is a beautifully illustrated picture book suitable for ages 3 and beyond. Although as an advocate of reading from as early an age as possible (even birth) why not start reading Emma to your little ones as early as possible. Not only will they love it, you will too!
Copyright Sandra Bennett and Dianna Budd
