Life goes on as usual in an ordinary street in an ordinary
town – until Rufus the numbat decides to pass through. Then there is disruption
on a grand scale. All it takes is one person to be tipped off-balance – well,
off their bike, actually – to set in motion a sequence of catastrophes. And
does Rufus care? Is he even aware of the trail of discombobulation he’s left
behind him? Of course not. For after all, Rufus the numbat loves a quiet life,
the songs of birds, the rustle of leaves. He’s only interested in what lies
ahead, and maybe a few termites along the way.
As always, David Miller has created another
masterpiece with his famous paper sculptures set against pen and ink
backgrounds. The whole book has a three-dimensional feel, and Rufus is –
exquisite. Make that – adorable.
The droll minimalist text works cleverly with the
detail of Miller’s illustrations to get the message across. This is a story of
slapstick proportions; but it bears a serious message. There is a role reversal
here. What would happen if animals infringed on the lives of humans? It makes
for lively discussion on the issue of protecting animal habitats and minimising
the human footprint on them.
Rufus the Numbat
is a delightfully endearing book that packs a punch. Recommended.
Ford Street Publishing 2010
(A version of this review
appears in Magpies
Vol 25, Issue 4, September 2010)
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