Faerie

Rating:
Summary: Lushly illustrated story
Review: Lushly illustrated story of conflict between fairies and ogres that is resolved with magic and lessons that reveal the hurts behind negative behaviors.

Suitable for ages 8-11.


Rating:
Summary: Colorful and fun, but...
Review: Bergsma has certainly earned her acclaim as an illustrator -- her work here demonstrates a steady hand and keen eye when it comes to turning text into vivid landscapes peopled with lively, memorable, big-eyed characters.

But nothing about the story leaps out and draws its audience into the action. The plot plods along with little action and few surprises. What Bergsma lacks as a storyteller in Faerie, she more than makes up as an artist. I'd love to see more of her illustrated books -- especially if someone else pens the tale.

Rating:
Summary: Extravagantly beautiful full-color art
Review: Falana is the head rainbow fairy. Keven is a boy wizard. Together they journey into a mystical world of trolls and goblins in Faerie, an enchanting picture book about conflict between the glorious and sunny land of fairies and elves, and the looming threat of darkness from the Goblin Land. Extravagantly beautiful full-color art by author/illustrator Jody Bergsma hallmarks this captivating and enthusiastically recommended fairytale fable for all ages.

Rating:
Summary: The perfect visual approach.
Review: What Bergsma lacks as a storyteller in Faerie, she more than makes up as an artist. I'd love to see more of her illustrated books -- especially if someone else pens the tale.