How to Catch a Star

With artists such as Neal Layton and Lauren Child having paved the way, Jeffers’ first picture book with its minimalist artwork style is unlikely to encounter the baffled reactions that might have greeted it only a few years ago. A boy (sundial like face, two sticks for legs) loves stars very much and the story depicts his efforts to obtain one to have as a friend. Reminiscent of an illustrative style found in Eastern Europe, Jeffers uses wash superbly well to convey shadow and reflection, confidently locating the boy and other elements in action sequences against white backgrounds or in atmospheric full colour pages. His use of the pages within the double spread moves the story forward with an intense seriousness – the reader is drawn in to the emotional drama and convinced by its satisfying denouement. A stunning debut!