At Home in a Book

In ‘At Home in a Book’, Lauren O’Hara introduces readers to nine classic tales through a combination of illustration and extracts. This is the sort of book which I would have loved as a child- one which can be explored in different ways, lingered over and enjoyed again and again.

Each book is introduced with an extract, followed by a cross section picture of the home central to that story. This is followed by additional information about characters and other details. Perfect for tempting children to explore one (or more) of these classic books, each section offers a taste of the story without spoiling it and allowing readers to have some understanding of the story before diving in.

But this is also a book to inspire the imagination and develop new stories. Gazing into the cottage Heidi shares with her grandfather, exploring below deck on the Jolly Roger or peeking into 221B Baker Street allows readers to engage with the stories in a different way, particularly if they are already familiar with them. They may question Lauren O’Hara’s interpretation of some of these homes or nod happily in agreement as her vision matches their own. It might inspire some to try capturing other favourite books in the same way- perhaps ‘Mole End’, 32, Windsor Gardens or the Buckets’ home.

The book also offers a world of nostalgia for adults looking back at some of their childhood treasures. It would make a wonderful gift for any booklover- old or young- as well as a lovely addition to libraries.

At Home in a Book

Lauren O’Hara

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241665794