Since I first posted about how much we loved Anna Hibiscus, we've re-read the entire series a couple more times. Back to back. And sometimes Maia has asked for random chapters from one of the books. She likes them that much. And I like the writing and the characters well enough that this is a pleasure and not a chore.
Apparently a bunch of you bought the series after I posted about them (what did you think?) and so the publisher was kind enough to send me the new picture book version of Anna Hibiscus. Written and illustrated by the same talented duo—Atinuke and Lauren Tobia—Anna Hibiscus' Song is full of color and joy and perfect for younger children.
It's lovely. Here are a couple of interior spreads.
Anna Hibiscus is still the same loveable Anna Hibiscus she is in the chapter book series, and she still "lives in Africa, amazing Africa," but the story is shorter, simpler, and, of course, more lavishly illustrated.
In this picture book version, Anna Hibiscus is happy and seeks advice from various family members for outlets for her happiness. She tries counting blessings, dancing (above), and finally bursts into song.
This is a sweet, sweet book.
If you'd like to buy it, or the Anna Hibiscus chapter books, you can do so through Leah, my Usborne seller (no commission or anything for me—just pointing you to the only Usborne seller I know).
Disclosure: This book was sent to me as a review copy free of charge by Kane/Miller Book Publishers (part of Usborne Books). All opinions expressed are my own.
