Come Away From the Water, Shirley

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Come away from the Water is a cute book that easily keeps my boys entertained. I will be checking into other books by the same author.

A must read. This picture book can teach any writer or art director about the synergistic relationship between words and images.

There's something very poignant about this book. It seems awfully sad that the parents are so oblivious to the childs imaginary world. On the other hand there is perhaps something reassuring and solid about their presence - after all Shirleys wild adventures, Mum and Dad are there waiting to take her home for tea. My son is still at an age where he doesn't pick up on the fact that Shirleys adventures are imaginary. He slightly boggles at the stupidity of the mother asking Shirley if she wants a drink when she's miles away fighting off pirates! This book is one of my favourites.

John Burningham's style is an acquired taste, but with classics from the Seventies such as 'Mr Gumpy's Motor Car', 'Cannonball Simp', and 'Borka', he remains one of the most prolific writer of chidrens' fiction over the past half a century or so. This one is okay but not that memorable; the illustrations are distinctively Burningham's but as a way of inspiring and encouraging young children with their reading, it feels very dated and a leftfield choice considering the vast quantities of more engaging literature aimed at toddlers these days.

I love the juxtaposition of Shirleys imaginative world with her parents dull reality. I find this book really hilarious although I'll admit it is not one of my daughters favourites, so I don't get to indulge in it as often as I would like to. I bought it after reading 'It's time to get out of the bath Shirley', which is equally fantastic. I also love John Burninghams 'Borka, the duck with no feathers' although that is rather sad in places.

It's quite astounding how seldom people recognise the author, yet once John Burningham's books are mentioned, it's like a light goes off. 'Come away from the water Shirley' sets off beacon lights. It's a curiosity of a story, that draws such discussion and confusion for readers, so much to ponder upon. Do Shirley's parents realise her (perceived/ real) journey? Why are they so absent? I can't recommend John Burningham highly enough.

A book that takes the reader into the character's imagination - how to see the impossible become alive in a dream. Brilliant illustrations that flow with the text and ignite the imagination. Fabulous as a story-writing prompt for young writers. John Birmingham captures the dreams and imaginings of childhood and is always a favourite.