Valerie Hubbard Damon

See full review @ The Indigo Quill

I happened upon this book when the gang and I went to the Books in Bloom Literary Festival down in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. After attending the festival, we decided to browse the shops downtown and stumbled upon this adorable shop with the most whimsical souvenirs, and lying in the front was this book. After observing the gorgeous illustrations and reading some of the poetry, I knew I had to find myself a copy! I also purchased one for my BFF (who was part of the BBLF gang), and she loves it!

Willo Mancifoot and the Mugga Killa Whomps is a wonderful little picture book that will tickle your imagination and encourage readers to recognize the value of peace and harmony. In a flowery poetic design, Valerie Hubbard Damon takes readers into Willobee Land where fascinating creatures of many kinds dwell:

Now come with me to Willobee,
A land both small and grand.
Come down on your knees
Below root trees,
Softly across the sand.
There you can see by a mushroom tree
A village of strange creations,
With fright things, Light Wings
And fly-in-the-night-things
Partaking in grand celebration.

Willo Mancifoot and his friends live in light, while the Mugga Killa Whomps live in darkness. The Mugga Killa Whomps want the light, but instead of trying to obtain it peacefully, they cause quite the ruckus for the others and disrupt Willobee Land. Damon offers a solution that inspires the reader to "Change for Light" and "Light for Change."

Willo Mancifoot has all the elements of story through fantasy and morale. Damon uses the idea of light and dark to encourage readers to be the "light" in an otherwise dark world. Children will enjoy the beautiful, fanciful illustrations and poetry, while adults can appreciate the symbolism and flow. The entire mood of the book is the idea of peace, love, and harmony through cooperation.

Damon is also the illustrator of the book. The watercolor illustrations are my favorite part. They're esthetically pleasing for both children and adults. Through the author's Etsy shop, fans of the artwork can purchase 18"x21" paintings that were created using hundreds of layers of translucent watercolor glazes, airbrush, and a brush that comes to a one hair point. Damon also provides a Teacher's Guide for educators upon request.

If you're looking for a whimsical adventure with poetic rhythm and a lesson that both you and your child can enjoy, then you'll enjoy Willo Mancifoot and the Mugga Killa Whomps. The illustrations will easily keep your attention! Damon has also written another book, Grindle Lamfoon and the Procurnious Fleekers, but I haven't gotten my hands on that one quite yet. If it's anything like Willo Mancifoot, then I'm sure it's fabulous.… (más)