The Red Prince

The King and Queen of Avala are beloved by their people, their son the Prince is friend to every child in the kingdom. So when he is kidnapped by strangers in the night, the people work together to ensure his safe return.  Outwitting their invaders with a display of solidarity and strength in the face of bullies, this is a story that has layers of meaning that offer different readings to children of all ages. However, it is Clohosy Cole’s artwork that steals the show. The clever illustration moves like an animator’s camera, each scene is so beautifully lit and directed it is like looking at Disney conceptual art. The frames propel the readers through the story and the climactic scene is a joy to behold. The story is simple but feels historical and traditional in its set-up and the whole experience is grand and cinematic. This is a brilliant picture book.