Emperor Of Absurdia

LoveReading4Kids Says

Shortlisted for the Nestle Children's Award 2006 and now deservedly shortlisted for the incredibly prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal 2007.  

Sumptuous illustrations tempt readers into the delightfully absurd world in which dinner is served before lunch and skyfish settle on umbrella trees. The young Emperor is a charming child with a hairy wardrobe monster as an advisor who sets off hunting dragons across a gloriously imagined landscape where anything fantastical can happen. A richly entertaining picture book from a uniquely talented artist at the height of his powers. (0-7)

Judges' comment:

Riddell makes glorious use of colour in this very interesting and engaging picture book, which despite being extraordinarily detailed is very easy to read. It cleverly gives the reader the impression of moving physically into its landscape, and works on lots of different levels as it turns reality completely on its head.

The composition of each page is always well-thought out, and the technique of using small pictures at certain points makes the reader slow down and study carefully. The ambiguous ending stays with you, and allows you to take pleasure from the book over and over again.

LoveReading4Kids

About Emperor Of Absurdia

Skyfish nibble umbrella trees, pointy birds steal scarves to line their pointy nests, and dinner is served before lunch. It's an absurd world. Of interest to young children, this is an entertaining story of dragon hunts and hairy wardrobe monsters.

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