Mango and Bambang The Not-a-Pig

Title: Mango and Bambang The Not-a-Pig
Author: Polly Faber
Illustrator: Clara Vulliamy
Publisher: Walker Books
Published: 2015
Format: Hardback
Source: My own copy

This is the first book to be released by Polly Faber as well as the first book in the “Mango & Bambang” series. It contains illustrations by Clara Vulliamy and its sequel “Mango & Bambang: Tapir All At Sea” has recently been released.

 

The book contains four short stories, starting with the time Mango Allsorts saves a tapir named Bambang who is quivering on a zebra crossing, causing a traffic jam. From then on, they get into all sorts of exciting adventures around the city, including at the swimming pool and at a concert hall. All of these stories are very entertaining and involve a lot of humour in them that people of all ages can enjoy. There are plenty of memorable characters in the cast including the titular characters themselves, the evil collector Cynthia Prickle-Posset and George, a boy who loves sweets but hates baths. Whilst Mango saves Bambang at the start of the book it soon becomes obvious that he has also changed her life for the better as well. This is a story about the value of true friends and the difference they make to each other's lives.

 

The pictures have a classical look to them that reminded me a little bit of “Milly Molly Mandy” and Bambang looks endearing in them, especially when wearing one of his beloved hats. Mango and Bambang have particularly expressive faces that tell you everything you need to know about their personalities. One lift of an eyebrow and you know exactly how they are feeling. Additionally, a simplistic colour palette consisting of purple, black and white has been used that helps to grab the attention of the reader.

 

I absolutely loved these short stories and I hope you do too. The writing and characters helped to draw my attention in as well as the fun illustrations on every page. The book is perfect for young children starting to read alone for the first time, bridging the gap between picture books and longer stories. I can't wait to read its sequel and any other books that Faber and Vulliamy have to offer in the future.