Books to read

Press, 15 July 1980, Page 14

Books to read

“THE BOSSING OF JOSIE.” by Ronda and David Armitage. Published by \ndre Deutsch. Josie was tired of being bossed by her mother, her father, and her big sister, or so she thought when she was having one of her glum days, the trouble was she couldn’t boss anybody, because her little brother didn’t take any notice of her. She tried to punish her irritating family by casting magic spells, but she had a terrible fright when one seemed to be successful. This is the fourth book written by the former New Zealand school teacher, Ronda Armitage, and illustrated by her husband. David.

“SYBIL AND THE BLUE RABBIT.” by Jane Johnson, published by Ernest Benn Limited, London (1979). Sybil did not want to go to school. She decided she was ill and stayed in bed with her blue rabbit for company. At first Sybil enjoyed being in bed, ; but the blue rabbit would not let her be ill comfortably. He dragged her into many exciting adventures.

“MRS FOX’S WEDDING.” Retold by Sara and Stephen Corrin. Illustrated by Errol Le Cain. Published by Faber and Faber (1980). When pretty Mrs Fox lost her handsome husband she vowed she would marry none but a fine gentleman with nine bushy tails as grand as the first Mr Fox. Many suitors called to see Mrs Fox but they were politely turned away by the housemaid, Miss Cat, until a suitable dandy presented himseh. The story is told partly in verse. “MISTER MAGNOLIA.” Written and illustrated by Quentin Blake. Published by Jonathan Cape. Everything about Mister Magnolia is strange and extravagant — hair, nose, shape, and movements. He has many gifts which he shares with the reader in comical situations, as he dances from page to page on long thin legs. But he has only one boot. Short texts in large print with a number of full-page colourful, humourous illustrations. An amusing story for young readers.