Synopses & Reviews
A beautiful and rich story about imagination and family from the author/illustrator of The Lion and the Unicorn, which School Library Journal called "remarkableÖa moving story." When Abel Grable returns home from his travels, he tells his family all about his adventures. One day he decides to write his stories down. He takes his table into the quiet garden and writes until dark -- and there the table stays, even after Abel goes looking for work again. His sons use the table to create their own imaginary adventures. And when Abel returns with more real-life stories, the children have their own fantastic tales to tell him, too.
Review
Hughes once again uses small, everyday moments to craft a powerful story. (Publisher's Weekly, September 20, 1999)
Review
Hughes has constructed an understated, poignant story about a family separated by necessity; it's sure to strike an answering chord with children and adults. (Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, November 1999)
Review
The text and art fit beautifully together to create a moving story that can be appreciated on many levels. (School Library Journal, September 1999)
Review
Once again, Hughes tells a warm, honest family story, where the simple words and exuberant watercolors express a surprising complexity about people and feelings that many children will recognize. (Booklist, December 1, 1999)
Review
A splendid tale for kids with traveling parents or for anyone seeking a thoroughly satisfying picture book, (this book) is lovely. (Copley News Service)
About the Author
Shirley Hughes has been called "a formidable force in the world of contemporary children's books" by The Horn Book. She is the author and illustrator of many books, including The Lion and The Unicorn, also published by DK Ink.