Don't Be Silly

There’s a lot to be said for being silly and it’s explored with glee and gusto in this new book from the illustrator of The Tale of the Whale. Bouncy Bo and little Smudge live in a castle, lucky children, its walls covered in portraits of solemn-looking grown-ups. Their father, Mr Judge, a judge evidently weighed down by his caseload, is shocked by his offspring’s exuberance as they somersault, jump and run through their home, and shouts out at them, ‘Don’t be silly!’. The two youngsters try to be more like grown-ups, dressing up in ‘important hats’ and ‘shoes of a serious size’ but the adults, real and painted, look down on them with disapproval. A trip to meet their grandparents, however, turns everything on its head – quite literally; a pair of travelling acrobats, they might be well past the first flush of youth, but they can and do cartwheel, dance and juggle with the best of them. Open-mouthed and even disapproving, Bo and Smudge take up their father’s cry and, ‘Don’t be silly’, they shout.

There is so much for readers of all ages to enjoy in this picturebook. Bo and Smudge’s joyful antics have an irresistible appeal as they gallop through their home, accompanied by an equally lively little cat and – count them – dozens of mice too. Adult readers will particularly enjoy the gallery of portraits and everyone will relish the disparity between our rosy-cheeked young protagonists and the stern faces around them. Its message that silliness isn’t the sole preserve of the young is beautifully delivered too.

Read our Q&A interview with author Padmacandra.