Town Is by the Sea

By Joanne Schwartz

Illustrated by Sydney Smith

While a young boy enjoys a summer's day, his thoughts constantly return to his father, who is digging for coal deep under the sea.

THE WINNER OF THE 2017 KATE GREENAWAY MEDAL Stunning illustrations by Sydney Smith, the award-winning illustrator of Footpath Flowers, show the striking contrast between a sparkling seaside day and the darkness underground where the miners dig. This beautifully understated and haunting story brings a piece of mining history to life. The ever-present ocean and inevitable pattern of life in a mining town will enthral children and move adult readers, as a young boy wakes up to the sound of the sea, visits his grandfather's grave after lunch and comes home to a cosy dinner with his family, but all the while his mind strays to his father digging for coal deep down under the sea.

Categories: Picture Books

For readers aged: 5+

  • Publication details:
  • Format: Paperback
  • ISBN: 9781406378863
  • Published: 05 Apr 2018
  • Price: £8.99
  •  
  • Size: 210 x 280 mm
  • Pages: 52

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Customer reviews

Reviews

'An atmospheric, haunting story about a young boy whose father digs for coal beneath the sea.' The Bookseller

'“Written by Joanne Schwartz and delightfully illustrated by Sydney Smith, Town is by the Sea is a quiet book that will stay with readers long after they have closed it.”' Israel Book Review

'“[…] this book is a stunning snapshot of a life […] And while this is for the reader a rather haunting tale, it also highlights the beauty and happiness that can be found around us even when life can seem harsh. […] The melodic text reads beautifully and the colour palette is stunning; Smith’s work on conveying sunlight on the water is some of the most striking I have ever encountered […] ”' Library Mice

'“A story, simply told, with beautifully evocative illustrations: this book is pure delight. […] It is one which when shared and talked about will become a firm favourite.”' The School Librarian

'“I haven't read such a deeply affecting picturebook in years – it moved me to tears. […] The pitch-perfect text and the outstanding illustrations which play with light and dark, summer sun and coal-seam black, combine to produce a masterpiece. I can't recommend it highly enough for older children and adults who are looking for something a little different.”' Independent online, Ireland

'“[…] a delightful book that left me on the edge of my seat.”' Kelly Allen Writer

'“The illustrations are beautiful and atmospheric and you really feel as if you are there.”' Books for Boys

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