From Separation to Friendship
When disaster strikes two separate groups of bugs, can they team up to save themselves or will their division cause their destruction? Bright, contrasting colours match with simple alliteration and a solid rhythmic scheme to create the world of Tulip and Brutus. Tulip’s graceful ladybug nature is juxtaposed against the unapologetic stinkbugs until a storm throws their world upside-down. The differences of the bugs include where they live, what they eat, what their hobbies are and their personalities. Whilst the politeness of the ladybugs is depicted through their delicate nibbling, the stinkbugs have no shame in boring away at their food. Tulip and Brutus explores the meaning of friendship, resilience, and acceptance of others throughout its narrative. The text teaches young children that no matter what our differences are, we all have similarities and the capacity to be friends.
Andrew Plant’s vivid illustrations complement the upbeat style of Liz Ledden’s writing voice and help to build the leafy atmosphere of the bugs. Shades of green, yellow, red and blue fill the pages of the book with eye-catching design. The cute depictions of bugs hanging off the letters of the title page are there to hint at how heartwarming the tale of friendship is, and Brutus’ funny expression foreshadows the humorous aspects of the story. The tactics the bugs use to ward off danger will have any child engulfed by laughter. Their defence mechanisms – although stinky – are factually accurate. This book would be a perfect read for young children age 3-6, especially by those fascinated by bugs.
R, 11/10/2019
