Hurry Up and Slow Down

This is a spin on the story of the Hare and the Tortoise, only this time it is not about a race. We see them in everyday situations where Tortoise is slow and cautious – ‘he likes to take his time over lunch’ – in contrast to Hare’s zippy style and constant refrain of ‘Hurry up’.

But things are different at bedtime. Now, Tortoise is reading Hare a story but too quickly, and it’s Hare who pleads ‘Hurry up and slow down’. The relationship between the two characters is delightfully caught in muted tones laid on a creamy background. Tortoise is firmly anchored on the pages while Hare bounces around all over the place. No wonder Tortoise needs a cup of chamomile tea at the end of the day! Youngsters will identify with Hare, especially when he begs for a bedtime story – and bedtime is just the right time to curl up with Hare and Tortoise.