The Cloud Spinner by Michael Catchpool and illustrated by Alison Jay (Knopf, 2012) is a fantastic new fairy tale with Jay’s uniquely characteristic illustrations (alkyd paint on thick paper, with crackle varnish). I love her art style: her unique varnish makes the pictures look aged, and the illustrations themselves are attractive and whimsical, which delightful things hiding in otherwise ordinary objects. Her style is perfect for a fairy tale since everything about it suggests a magical land. Jay’s art reminds me of mosaics.
Catchpool’s story is likewise noteworthy. In it, one small boy is able to spin the clouds. He makes himself a hat and scarf, but is careful to not use too much, despite how lovely and soft the fabric is. When the king spots the luscious fabric, he demands a coat made of the clouds. His greed grows, and soon the royal family is clothed in the clouds. Only his little princess notices the consequences of his greed and she must find a way to solve the problem. A well done picture book for child and adult alike.
I read this book for consideration for the Cybils 2012 awards.
