All these stories look at life closely and reflect that with honesty. The writers are children who are mature storytellers of the experiences of their lives.
The illustration where the baby elephant sleeps on its mother’s stomach with its trunk folded gives you a complete experience of the mother’s hugeness and the baby’s total carefreeness. This illustration of affection and trust is the soul of the book. Such vivid and impactful illustrations are rarely seen.
In this story, the weekly bazaar is five kilometres from the village, and the way is through a dense jungle. The route is difficult and even includes a river that can flood and the threat of wild animals, yet the child goes. It’s even possible that going to the market or returning home from the market might cost one’s life. The sellers and shopkeepers arrange their wares on the ground in the weekly market and try to wind up their sales before the evening sets in.
The illustrations are somewhat uneven but many capture well the close relationship between the little girl and the Kabuliwallah.
Eamonn O’Boyle’s illustrations add a wonderful layer to the story, bringing the vibrant and whimsical world of Minky and Rama to life. The visuals perfectly capture the fun and wonder of their journey, making the book even more engaging and enjoyable.
Overall, Baloo’s Big Win is a powerful tale of perseverance, passion, and social change. It not only emphasizes the importance of following one’s dreams but also addresses a critical social issue that remains relevant today. This book is bound to inspire young readers to chase their aspirations