Resourceful Tom has a great fantasy adventure in this exciting and action-packed story with clear, bold illustrations. Setting out to find his father who has gone missing on an expedition to the North Pole, Tom sails through icebergs, flees from a giant walrus, loses his tent and builds an igloo. Just when the sun is setting and he’s almost given up hope, Tom spots a familiar tent…
Chris Judge’s debut picture book, The Lonely Beast, won the Specsaver’s Irish Children’s Book of the Year 2011 and is nominated for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal 2012.
When a famous explorer goes missing in the North Pole, his son, Tom, decides he must find him. And so a daring adventure begins across the treacherous icy terrain of the North Pole. Will Tom be able overcome the many challenges ahead and find his father?
Author Chris Judge has always been fascinated by stories of the Arctic and Antarctic explorers of the late 19th and early 20th Century, in particular the Irish explorer Tom Crean who is a hero to many in Ireland. Tom Crean went on many expeditions with other famous explorers including Scott and Shackleton. It was this fascination with Tom Crean’s determination, courage and perserverance that inspired The Great Explorer.
‘A beautifully illustrated and humorous picture book’ - The judges of the Irish Children's Book Award
‘Judge tells a familiar tale but illustrates it with uncommon style and verve.’ - New York Times
'The Lonely Beast is illustrated in such a diverse way that it makes it totally worth buying without even reading the story! (But) the story is equally brilliant. A quirky and a good value read.' - Early Years Educator
‘The Lonely Beast heralds a brilliant new talent in the world of picture books.’ - P. J. Lynch
‘An irresistible debut – as fresh and original as they come. Top pick!’ - The Bookseller
‘Glorious illustrations of the Beast as he makes friends all over the world bring this story vividly to life.’ - Julia Eccleshare, Lovereading4kids
‘Magnificent. The enjoyable text is complemented beautifully by rich, vibrant, quirky illustrations. Chris Judge is definitely one to watch out for.’ - Children's Books Ireland
‘A dynamic story, carried by its lithe, shifting frames and bright, colourful visuals.’ - Inis Magazine
‘A talented new picture book author.’ - Red House Children’s Book Award, Pick of the Year
Author
About Chris Judge
Chris Judge is an illustrator and painter based in Dublin. His work has appeared in advertising, newspapers, magazines and exhibitions around the world. His debut picture book, The Lonely Beast, won the Irish Children’s Book Award in 2011.
