This ridiculous book just keeps going – until it turns around and unravels.
The Day Louis Got Eaten
by John Fardell
Andersen Press
ISBN: 978 1 84939 387 4
Louis and Sarah are riding along happily, when Louis gets eaten. Sarah gives chase, only to see the predator become prey – over and over. In the end, the resourceful girl saves the day, Louis has his own moment of heroism, and everyone returns home okay. It’s deadpan and silly, with repetition only adding to the amusement.
This book has a vaguely familiar feel about it – there have certainly been other children’s books about chains of events – Meanwhile, Previously, Fortunately, and Fortunately, Unfortunately come to mind. The animals, too, are of the absurd, made-up sort that recall Ricky Gervais’ Flanimals.
But still? Even if it feels like a bit of a reboot, it’s a charming one, and a fun ride, as the siblings end up on quite the adventure. I must admit that for me, being a fan of the absurd and the straight delivery of ludicrous things, it’s right up my alley, but the illustrations really make it. They are a little cute, a little cartoony, and just the right note to keep this from scaring a younger child who might not get the humour without the images signifying the cartoon-ness of it as well. As it is? I think it’s great fun, and can’t wait to share it with my own two tomorrow night.