Follow the Rainbow (Juliet M Sampson, illus Anne Ryan, Ford St)

Follow the Rainbow is Juliet M Sampson’s latest picture book, set against beautifully coloured illustrations by Anne Ryan. Ruby is daydreaming with her best friend and dog, Tavish, as she lies in a paddock on the family dairy farm. She is making shapes out of clouds, but something emerges when the clouds turn grey. A rainbow! With her curiosity piqued, Ruby is off on an adventure to find out what really is at the end of the rainbow. She meets a scarecrow, a metal man, and a lion on her determined venture to solve the mystery. The story is playful and creative, with a sweet message delivered as the mystery is solved. Sampson has said that she was inspired by her bond with her dog, and there is obvious inspiration from The Wizard of Oz, with the motifs of the scarecrow, metal man, lion, dog, red boots, and so on. Follow the Rainbow is a stimulating read for imaginative minds. Young readers will enjoy sharing in Ruby’s curiosity, unwavering determination, and the backdrop of rural farm life. Finally, they can take part in the validating pleasure of learning just how homely a rainbow can be.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Bohdi Byles is a freelance reviewer with a background in bookselling, publishing and writing. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Category: Reviews