Skunk and Badger

No one wants a Skunk as their live-in lodger, so when Skunk arrives, Badger has a dilemma. Skunk has after all been sent by Badger’s aunt. But Badger is a solitary sort, completely set in his ways and focussed on his important Rock Studies. Skunk is very different – and he is a skunk. Things do not look good.

This is a book that demands to be read aloud. The author’s voice is distinctive and immediate speaking directly to her audience. Badger and Skunk emerge, solidly real and distinctive as their relationship unfolds. And then there are the chickens. There is a thoroughly enjoyable surrealism woven into the narrative adding colour to the whole while emphasising the central theme that differences between people (or as in this case, animals) can only enrich friendships. Timberlake here joins the ranks of writers like Lobel with Frog and Toad, to bring us a memorable pairing that delights. Klassen’s full colour frontispiece sets the scene while his illustrations throughout the book add moments to savour. Definitely one to share.