Frances Lincoln Children’s Books ISBN 9781847809490 £11.99
Balthazar the Great is indeed that. A powerful Polar bear with a talent for playing the violin. This thought-provoking story explores themes of isolation, loneliness, belonging, ageism and, on another level, subtly questions the merits of keeping animals in captivity. Balthazar is past his prime and, one day, is set free from the circus where he once performed. He now has to find his place and find his way back home. With illustrations that skilfully capture the melancholic isolation of Balthazar’s journey and his quest to find friendship in a hostile world, the story demonstrates the challenges we all must face when our circumstances change. The interplay between text and picture provides plenty for an adult to share with a child reader and much to discuss and comment on. Large double page spreads through the text with stark landscapes demonstrate the loneliness of the journey and its adversity. Thankfully, Balthazar finds his way home and the ending provides the resolution child readers will be seeking. I loved the interplay between the images and words and how they combined to evoke a real emotional response from the reader. What a relief it ends well. Age range: 1-5.
Isabel Macdonald, Professional Tutor, Institute of Education