Alphonse, That Is Not OK to Do! (Natalie and Alphonse)

Alphonse, That Is Not OK to Do! (Natalie and Alphonse)

Daisy Hirst, Daisy Hirst (Illustrator)
$15.99
Publication Date: November 8th, 2016
Publisher:
Candlewick
ISBN:
9780763681036
Pages:
40

Description

Two siblings have a falling-out and make up again in spectacular style in a warm, witty story with sure appeal for little monsters everywhere.

Once there was just Natalie. And then there was Alphonse, too. Natalie mostly doesn’t mind Alphonse being there—they both like naming pigeons (“Banana!” “Lorraine!”), bouncing things off bunk beds, and sharing a story together on the chair. But Alphonse sometimes draws on things that Natalie has made. And when she finds him eating her favorite book, she’s had enough: “Alphonse, that is not OK to do!” With bold illustrations and a subtle touch, Daisy Hirst visits the familiar territory of sibling squabbles—and the touching bond beneath it all that sees little monsters through.

About the Author

Daisy Hirst is the author-illustrator of The Girl with the Parrot on Her Head, her debut picture book. She received an MA in children’s book illustration from the Cambridge School of Art and lives in London.

Praise for Alphonse, That Is Not OK to Do! (Natalie and Alphonse)

There’s no moralizing in this tale of siblings on a collision course, written with a gossamer touch. Instead, Hirst (The Girl with the Parrot on Her Head) lets the two children work things out for themselves and offers the idea that drawing isn’t just child’s play, but a place where powerful emotions can be confronted and resolved.
—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Hirst's screen-printed illustrations, bright primary palette, simple text, and even her bespoke, faux hand-printed typeface (WB Natalie Alphonse) suggest the work of a young child, giving her simple tale an authentic charm. Sweet and effective.
—Kirkus Reviews

With charm and wit, Hirst's truly adorable screen-printed illustrations reflect the rocky, rewarding nature of siblinghood.
—Shelf Awareness for Readers

The large, colorful illustrations are simple and captivating. Natalie and Alphonse are endearing, expressive little monsters...Parents will appreciate the respectful language Natalie uses with her little brother, even when she is displeased with him. In the end, Alphonse is remorseful, Natalie is forgiving, and the conclusion is sweet and happy. This charming story about the frustrations of life with a younger sibling is recommended for most collections.
—School Library Journal

The screen-printed illustrations shine with childlike energy; lines are thick and simple, sometimes bursting into action in Natalie and Alphonse’s own artwork, while sunny yellow backgrounds contrast effectively with scarlet, slightly Muppety Natalie and teal, slightly rabbity Alphonse. Fans of Lauren Child’s vigor and pre-K authenticity will want to meet Natalie and Alphonse, as will those who appreciated Patterson’s My No, No, No Day!
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

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