Illustrated by Jim Field Hachette Children’s Books ISBN 9781408349236 £12.99
I am a fan of Rachel Bright and this book does not disappoint. Humphrey the whale roams the ocean, seeking undersea treasure. He finds plenty of items, but he cannot find the thing that will make him feel content. He encounters a feisty crab, Crystal, who challenges him, “YOU are the Whale who ALWAYS wants MORE/ But WHAT are you really wanting it FOR?” Humphrey starts to realise that it is not possessions that will fill his sense of longing. It is only when he gives, rather than takes that he feels fulfilled.
Atmospheric illustrations accompany the text. The pictures of Humphrey are superb, and encourage the reader to consider what the whale is thinking. I also enjoyed the bickering sea creatures. Perfect for sharing, the rhyming text reads well aloud. The book offers plenty of areas for discussion, including happiness, fulfilment, the importance of possessions, vulnerability, sharing, home truths and friendships. Highly recommended.
Brenda Marshall
