4 stars
A lovely mythical version of “Over in the Meadow” that incorporates counting and magical creatures into a soothing rhyme. Magical read from a twin writing duo.
The book also includes a scavenger hunt feature for added engagement. Readers are challenged to find the griffin on each page as they traverse the Woodland to meet various creatures.
I really liked that there were just as many fathers depicted as mothers. Each parent is shown helping, teaching, and guiding their children in a certain task, from dancing to archery to forging weapons.
The illustrations are gorgeous, very moody and dark while still portraying the magic and brightness of the world created. There’s a nice variety of creatures presented, including mermaids, cyclopes, trolls, and unicorns, that all children are likely to find at least one that interests them. I do think the illustrations may appeal more to adults than children. The darkness of the pallet on many pages adds to the beauty, but may not be as eye-catching to young children.
At the end of the book is short guide to the beings featured with a little more information about them.
A great story for children interested in mythological creatures that can be used to help teach and review counting, rhyming, and action labels.