posted on 13 Sep 2024

A Kite for Melia by Samuel Narh and Freda Narh, illustrated by Valeria Suria

There are so many picture books about active and energetic young girls, boys and various creatures that I always breathe a sigh of relief when I see one with a cover that shows a quiet, thoughtful character. I guess that I identify more with this kind of child who appears to enjoy gazing at the sky and being lost in an imaginative world. I know plenty of children who appreciate some quiet times when they can be in their own special space.

The front cover sends all the right signals, particularly as it is printed on heavy paper showing Melia luxuriating in soft green grass replete with cheerful dandelions. My group of four-year-old children wondered if she was planning an adventure, or just taking a peaceful break from a busy day. She certainly looks very relaxed as she stretches out lazily looking up at yellowy pink clouds scudding across a creamy sky.     

The story explains that she is keen to have her own kite as she watches the older kids having fun on the ridge. We talked about whether she was feeling lonely but on the turn of the page learn that she is missing her dog, Ginger. We spent some time looking at the sumptuous illustration showing them happily chasing fireflies together against a purple night sky. We wondered about whether the dog had got lost or something more serious, and this led to some talk about other pets and how sad it was when they died. 

We were outraged to learn that the older children are very unfriendly and unhelpful when she asks to join in. She is cross, but undaunted because she knows where she might be able to find some information about how to make her own kite. We guessed that the library might be a good place to visit, although it seems to be a long way away:

‘With twists and 

turns, these dusty

roads seem endless’.

When she eventually arrives, she is frustrated because nobody seems to be able to help. But then she finds an old book about kites:

‘She discovers twinkles of beauty in silence;

this aged booklet smells like success.’ 

This is a story about determination and resourcefulness because Melia just keeps on trying. We liked the picture that shows her trudging up the ridge with the homemade kite on her back – surely someone will help her out? We waited to see with bated breath as it ‘soars into the cradle of the sky’ watched by speechless older kids.

This thought-provoking and beautifully illustrated book is produced by Chasing a Spider Publishing and is now available from your local independent bookshop. They should be able to order it for you if they don’t have it on their shelves.

Karen Argent

September 2024