Pictures in the Dark
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Cover Story
The cover of this issue is a design incorporating illustrations from four books illustrated by the subject of our Authorgraph, Ian Beck. The top left illustration is from Five Little Ducks (Orchard), the top right from Poppy and Pip's Picnic (to be published Autumn '97 by HarperCollins), the bottom left from The Owl and the Pussy-cat (Transworld) and the bottom right from Home Before Dark (to be published September '97 by Scholastic). Ian Beck's Picture Book (Hippo) is reviewed in this issue.
Beck talks to BfK's interviewer, Julia Eccleshare, also in this issue. His distinctive decorative style with its sensitive pen line and cross hatching has a nostalgic but sometimes also a surreal quality - he describes it as 'a look that is floating, strong and wistful all at the same time'.
Thanks to Orchard, HarperCollins, Transworld and Scholastic for their help in producing this composite cover.
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Send to friendPictures in the Dark
Inside the disappointing cover to Cross's latest novel is a sombre tale about Peter, a persecuted boy, Charlie, a photography fanatic, and an otter. The links between the protagonists are teasing; Charlie seeks more originality in his pictures and enlists Peter's help in getting to know the river. More strangely, Peter's spirit is freed from its torment when the otter swims. The plot is packed with tension and drama; the denouement strong yet compassionate. Cross is on good form here and this edition is well worth buying for Year 9 readers needing liberation from the grind of SATS preparation.
