My Dad

Placing any Browne title in a particular age range for review purposes is a pretty inexact science, for here is a book that is as likely to be found on a coffee table as read in the nursery. In common with his other books I also have a slight nervousness about recommending some of his arresting images to young eyes and minds: think of the dad in Zoo and the cover of this latest title will have strong echoes. However, this dad is altogether more benign, his beige, chequered dressing-gown emerging on successive pages as a characteristic Browne leitmotif. 'My Dad' eats like a horse, swims like a fish, is happy as a hippopotamus and lots more besides, each phrase of course slipping dear dad into the skin or hide of the relevant animal. But he is also fantastic at football and a great dancer and thus cast in glowing roles throughout. 'I love my dad and he loves me' ends the book accompanied by an exquisite hug between father and child. Perfect! But look out for dad recast as a slice of toast - Browne never lets the reader relax. A stunning interplay of words and pictures.