Off to Market

Everyone wants to catch the bus to the market, but eventually it’s so full that it can’t make it up the hill. Who will give up their place to ensure the others can get there?

Rich colours, blocked by the use of a strong black line make this an immediately attractive book for sharing. There is plenty happening in the detailed spreads, and much to discuss in the African setting: fruits, clothing, people and wildlife.

Erika Pal is great at depicting movement – from the dust on the road to wind in the face – and seemingly effortlessly captures joy, boredom and anxiety in her character’s expressions. The artwork adds greatly to this pleasing, simple tale about being unselfish.