Gus Gordon has written a love story worthy of a Nora Ephron movie.. it's a bit of a triangle though, with Herman, Rosie AND the city of New York all mashed together (Tom Hanks could easily play Herman, this would not be a stretch, Rosie is so cool that I'm not sure who should be cast). Every page has something to tickle your fancy, whether it be the words he chooses or the incredible scenes he has created. These two unique characters come alive in the pages of this book and when they finally meet, you are thrilled for them and just open it up to read their love story all over again. It's jam-packed with so much detail that you can see something new and wonderful each time. It's a keeper, worth a purchase or a hold @ the biblio. This is a beautiful book built on a slight story. The stylish and witty illustrations layer multi-media collage, water color, ink and crayon. The characters of Herman, an alligator, and Rosie, an antelope-like creature, are winningly rendered. Unknown to each other, they live a few buildings apart amidst the bustle of New York City. Over a dozen pages the reader learns of their shared interests and loneliness. Predictably serendipity brings them together and their partnership gladdens the heart and enriches the city, or at least the jazz clubs of New York.Since kids aren't typically jazz fans or too concerned about lonely urban adults, the plot seems odd, but given the appeal of the illustrations they will no doubt be pleased by the happy ending.
What do You think about Herman And Rosie (2012)?
Words taken straight from the book...made me "feel like he had eaten honey straight from the jar"!
—ethika
