Lauren Child’s new illustrated Hubert Horatio novel is out now. Not only does it have a ping pong table in it, there’s a talking hot dog, an Italy-shaped swimming pool, an interpretive dance routine and a Chelsea bun. Where I come from, Chelsea Buns are known as Boston Buns, but it makes no difference as they taste the same. Lauren is very good at mysteries, but she can also make a mystery very funny and you need to use your brain a bit at the same time. The book is brimming with illustrations – one on every page, which is good value for a novel.
Hair of the dog...
The beauty parlour dog is daydreaming.
I don’t remember drawing that...
Unsightly mouse hole covers...
Discreetly hide unwanted, unsightly mouse holes with adorable hand painted angled screens installed at floor level. Add a splash of colour to suit any decor.
Allows mouse full 24 hour access to hole when angled correctly.
Behind the scenes...
A not-so-good drawing looks better on the other side. It’s always worth a look.
I can only go one way. I've not got a reverse gear. (Tony Blair).
I wish I could draw like that…
Paper view…
This papier mache piece utilises an old cigar canister I’ve been keeping for just this purpose. The wings were an affectation I have no explanation for.
Eternal combustion engine.
Here you go…
I said I’d do it.
Is this what you mean?
National Read A Book Day…
It is National Read A Book Day and I have chosen one of my favourite books to re-read. I haven't read the whole book from cover to cover, instead I've jumped from interesting chapter to interesting chapter and pored over the beautiful illustrations and lettering without reading all the beautifully typeset words. Well, I have read the useful words, but I'm distracted by how gorgeous the book is and it's a slow process, so I'm going to take more time on account of the National Day. I'm lucky to have found a pristine 1958 printing of the book first published in 1906.
Black and white and red all over.
Travel broadens the mind…
I found a tiny notebook. It says nothing and everything and is all a bit unruly if you're into straight lines.