Barbapapa by Annette Tison and Talus Taylor

Barbapapa by Annette Tyson and Talus Taylor
Buy Barbapapa by Annette Tison and Talus Taylor at Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com
Category: For Sharing
Reviewer: Louise Jones
Summary: A shape-shifting pink blob tries to make friends in the big city and ends up becoming a local hero.
Buy? Yes	Borrow? Yes
Pages: 32	Date: September 2013
Publisher: Orchard Books
External links: Author's website
ISBN: 9781408330715
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Bibliophiles over the age of 40 may have fond memories of a certain shape-shifting character by the name of Barbapapa who appeared in a series of children's books back in the 1970’s. The books were originally written in French, but gained popularity and were eventually translated into 30 languages. Barbapapa also had his own TV series and comic book and his name, literally translated, means candy floss. The books are now enjoying a resurgence in popularity now that the original stories have been reprinted in English for a new generation to enjoy.

Barbapapa is a huge, pink, shape-shifting blob who can transform himself into any form he wishes. He was born in a garden, where he became friends with a boy called Francois. Unfortunately, he is too big to stay in the garden, so is sent to live in the zoo, where he is very unhappy. However, when he discovers that he can change his shape, he becomes a hero when he rescues some citizens from a fire and then goes on to capture a leopard that has escaped from the zoo. Soon Barbapapa is the town hero.

This book is sweet and charming and I loved getting reacquainted with this character from my childhood. My little boy absolutely loved the story, although he got a bit upset when they locked Barbapapa in the cage at the zoo. He wanted me to read the book again and again. The text is nice and straightforward, making this a perfect book for emerging readers. The pictures are simple but very expressive and there are plenty of interesting little details on each page to make each retelling a fresh experience to share.

It’s good to see you back, Barbapapa.

Take a blast from the past and enjoy Top Ten Timeless Picture Books To Treasure Forever; the ultimate nostalgia trip.

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