• CHILDREN'S LITERATURE,  Picbook Review

    The Water Folks Return Home: A Delightful Journey through the Water Cycle

    In the pages of “The Water Folks Return Home,” a captivating narrative unfolds, inviting readers to explore the mesmerizing journey of rain droplets and the narratives they embody.

    The narrative unfolds as rain droplets descend from the sky, symbolizing the commencement of the water cycle. However, their return to Earth takes an unexpected turn, transforming into a flood. The story artfully weaves together the story of nature with the challenges it presents, setting the stage for a thoughtful exploration of environmental themes.

    As the raindrops become a flood, the story introduces a compelling human element. Within a week, the community faces the aftermath, rebuilding homes and planting trees to prevent future flooding. This imaginative twist not only captures the resilience of humanity but also imparts valuable lessons about the interconnectedness of our actions and the environment.

    The decision to plant more trees echoes the ecological wisdom that trees play a crucial role in maintaining a balance within ecosystems. They absorb excess water, reduce soil erosion, and contribute to a healthier environment. In this way, the story subtly encourages readers, both young and old, to appreciate the importance of sustainable practices in preserving our planet.

    Conclusion:
    “The Water Folks Return Home” is more than just a picture book; it’s an educational adventure that sparks curiosity about the natural world. Through its imaginative narrative, the book invites readers to ponder the significance of water cycles, the impact of human activities on the environment, and the role each of us can play in fostering a harmonious coexistence with nature.

    As we close the pages of this charming tale, let’s carry the lessons of “The Water Folks Return Home” into our own lives, fostering a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance that sustains our planet.

    About the author and illustrator:
    Landon Chia, the creative force behind “The Water Folks Return Home,” is a versatile artist with a passion for animation, writing, and indie game development. Landon’s storytelling prowess extends beyond the gaming realm, as evidenced by “The Water Folks Return Home.” Through this picture book, he not only showcases his talent as a storyteller but also introduces young readers to the wonders of the water cycle in a captivating and imaginative way.

    Chinnyinc hails from the town of Kluang and her artistic journey led her to the prestigious Cambridge School of Art in the UK, where she pursued a major in MA Children’s Book Illustration. Chinnyinc’s artistry shines through this book as she expertly employs watercolour and coloured pencils to bring the narrative to life. Her choice of mediums adds a touch of warmth and whimsy to the illustrations, creating a visual feast for readers of all ages.

    Where to buy:
    You can buy this book from The Museum of Picture Book Art at GMBB, Jalan Robertson, KL or get in touch with the author and illustrator on Instagram: Landon Chia and Chinnyinc

    The Water Folks Return Home
    Author: Landon Chia
    Illustrator: Chinnyinc
    Price RM38.00
    ISBN 9786299738121
    Publisher: Brand Gasing Buku
    Size: 29 cm x 23 cm x 2 cm

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  • CHILDREN'S LITERATURE,  Picbook Review

    A Visual Delight and Heartwarming Tale in “Grandma’s Jungle Foot Massage”

    “Grandma’s Jungle Foot Massage” revolves around two boys who live near the jungle with their grandma. Every night, they heard sounds from the jungle, which Grandma explained as the sombre cries of animals losing their homes to development. Grandma, being a skilled foot massager, decided to take action. One day, the three of them ventured into the jungle, bringing fried bananas.

    Grandma even set up a spot for foot massages for the animals. The creatures were elated as the humans pampered them, and they joyfully shared yummy fried bananas.

    I love that the genuine connection between humans and the jungle’s inhabitants adds a layer of authenticity to the story, making it a delightful and relatable read. The book catalyzes conversations about our responsibility to care for the environment and the positive change that can stem from acts of empathy.

    Written by Ritsuko Araki and illustrated by Sanae Yamada, this picture book carries a poignant message of compassion and the transformative power of small gestures. Araki skillfully explores profound themes within the pages of this picture book. The narrative serves as a gentle reminder of the impact of human development on wildlife. The harmonious blend of the characters with the jungle underscores the importance of preserving our natural surroundings. Araki subtly weaves in environmental awareness, making it accessible and relevant for young readers.

    The story was originally written in Japanese and translated by Jerry Martin, who works mostly in children’s literature. He studied Japanese language and literature before moving to Japan to teach English to children.

    Sanae Yamada’s enchanting illustrations bring an extra layer of magic to this already delightful tale. Hailing from Ehime, Japan, and residing in Malaysia since 2003, Yamada’s watercolour mastery shines through. The vibrant and adorable colours leap off the pages, creating a visual feast that complements the narrative beautifully. Each stroke of the brush adds a touch of whimsy to the story, making it a joy to behold.

    In conclusion, “Grandma’s Jungle Foot Massage” is an enchanting journey that beautifully imparts lessons on environmental stewardship and the enduring impact of simple acts of kindness. This picture book is a must-read for those seeking both entertainment and meaningful takeaways.

    Title: Grandma’s Jungle Foot Massage
    Cover: Hardcover
    Publisher: Oyez!Books

    This book can be purchased from the Museum of Picture Book Art, GMBB, Jalan Robertson, KL.

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  • Germany,  TRAVEL/HOLIDAYS

    Exploring Germany: A Journey through Mainz, Frankfurt, Karlsruhe, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden and Tumberg

    Delayed but not forgotten, join me as I revisit my journey through Germany with friends in October 2022. The colours of fall painted a picturesque backdrop to our adventures, from historic city strolls to the mesmerising countryside. Although time has passed, the memories of this autumn escape remain vivid. Let’s take a belated but enchanting trip through Germany.

    Photo by Zanariah Salam.

    Last year, in October 2022, six of my friends and I embarked on an adventure to Germany to attend the Frankfurt Book Fair. We seized the opportunity to explore other parts of Germany—specifically Karlsruhe, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, and Tumberg, replacing our initial plan to visit Strasbourg. The travel companions included Adah, Yati, Nilam, Zana, Mimi, Zalila, and myself. Zalila joined us later during the Frankfurt leg. Unfortunately, our friend Yan couldn’t make it as she had to complete her thesis.

    Our journey commenced with a gathering at KLIA, featuring eager faces ready for the outbound flight. A series of flights, including UL 315 and UL 501 with Sri Lanka Airlines, brought us to Frankfurt, where our exploration of Germany would begin.

    14 Oct (Friday): Arrival in Mainz
    Touching down at FRA Airport at 3:20 pm, we took two taxis to Mainz, sharing the €67 fare for each taxi. Our home for the next few days was Aussicht Mainz-City, a cosy abode at Früchtstraße. After settling in, we took a breather, enjoying a simple yet satisfying meal of bread with sambal that Nilam and Adah had made before the travel.

    While Früchtstraße might not have major historical landmarks or tourist attractions, it contributes to the overall fabric of Mainz’s urban life. The residential area where we stayed offers a glimpse into the daily life of Mainz residents. The accommodations here range from apartments to cosy guesthouses, providing a more authentic and less touristy atmosphere. The area also has small shops and cafés as well as Apotheke.

    Früchtstraße area where we stayed.

    15 Oct (Saturday): Riverside Strolls and Cultural Gems
    On the serene Saturday of October 15th, we dedicated our day to indulging in the allure of Mainz. A leisurely 3.6km stroll along the Rhine River path unfolded, revealing a breathtaking canvas of vibrant foliage along the riverbanks.

    Rhine River Path.

    The afternoon was gracefully embraced by a visit to the Gutenberg Museum, where the fascinating history of printing came to life. Mainz, renowned as the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, the ingenious inventor of the printing press, witnessed the creation of the Gutenberg Bible in the 1450s—a pioneering work that revolutionized the world of printing.

    That was Yan, dolly version.

    Our journey continued to the enchanting Kirchgarten, a district steeped in history and adorned with well-preserved timber-framed houses. These architectural marvels, featuring exposed wooden beams, intricate designs, and steeply pitched roofs, transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into Mainz’s medieval past.

    Walking through Kirchgarten is akin to a captivating journey into Mainz’s history, where every step echoes the city’s rich heritage.

    One of the timber houses in Kirchgarten.

    16 Oct (Sunday): Culinary Delights in the Rain
    In the morning, the girls went to the laundry to wash our collective clothes. Despite the whole day’s rain, we stayed home and updated our journals. However, the culinary scene of Mainz was not to be missed, although the cuisine originated from Italy. Lunch at La Stella included a delightful trio of pizzas: Vegetariana, Margherita, and Salmone. The rainy weather couldn’t dampen our spirits as we savoured each bite. Ja gut!

    17 Oct (Monday): Botanical Beauty and Homemade Comfort
    We visited the Botanical Gardens at Johannes Gutenberg University. Besides autumn trees showcasing their colours, the flower plants were displaying their prettiness. I collected some autumn leaves for my journal.

    Later, we dropped by Rewe to buy ingredients for dinner. I was the cook for the night, so I prepared pumpkin soup, which turned out a bit too spicy for Nilam and Zana. We enjoyed the soup–with bread, of course.

    18 Oct (Tuesday): Transition to Frankfurt
    We checked out of our Mainz stay at 10 am. As the day unfolded, Mainz bid us farewell with a downpour. Undeterred, we pressed on, taking a bus from Fruchtstrasse to Mainz Hbf, eventually making our way to Frankfurt Hbf. Despite a one-hour train delay, the anticipation was met with relief as we reunited with Zalila, who had patiently waited for 3 hours at the main station alone. Navigating through rain and delays, we finally arrived at Panorama Hostel. When I booked the dorm for 7 pax, I looked at the photos on the website, but upon seeing it later, the dorm was small for 7 people. Nonetheless, we made do with the hostel’s amenities. A swift turnaround led us to the Frankfurt Book Fair, where we received a comprehensive briefing from the chief delegate, Encik Khair Ngadiron. The evening was spent arranging books at the pavilion and Oyez booth, followed by a well-deserved dinner of Kebab rice with salad at a restaurant near the hostel.

    19 Oct (Wednesday): Immerse in the Book Fair Buzz
    The dawn of the Frankfurt Book Fair marked a full day of literary immersion. I attended Oyez’s booth from 9 am to 12 pm and later joined the rest at the Malaysia pavilion. Each moment was a testament to the vibrant world of words. The country of focus was Spain, with King Felipe, Queen Letizia, and Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier officially opening the fair. We left the fairground at 4 pm and went to Alim Imbiss for dinner. Later, we walked to Primark. For the first time in my many visits to Frankfurt, I got to try a Frankfurter hotdog, this time sold by a Muslim man outside Primark. It was delicious. I bought another one because apparently, the cold weather made me even hungrier and was also to make up for all the time that I didn’t get to taste it.

    20 Oct (Thursday): Sketching in Journal
    At the book fair, I waited at Oyez’s booth in Hall 4. Later at 1 pm, I went around the fair, sitting and sketching a bit here and there in my journal. My friends were all over the fair doing their things.

    21 Oct (Friday): A Public Day of Literary Revelry
    With a deliberate choice to skip the book fair, we set out to Romerberg on the cold, rainy morning. We had hot drinks at the cafe nearby to warm ourselves. We then walked to Alter Bruecke. Later, we visited the Struwwelpeter Museum, allowing us to delve into the rich tapestry of German folklore. Both the Struwwelpeter Museum and Goethehaus were a bit different from when I visited years ago. They had relocated, and it was much easier now to look for both.

    We later went to Palmengarten, the rain became heavier and we explored the garden while holding our umbrellas. The garden never ceases to amaze me.

    It was my birthday today. The girls brought a few pieces of cake to celebrate my birthday complete with a birthday card. It was beautiful. I mean the friendship. My birthday has always been a day for me to reflect on what have I done throughout my existence in the world. I wish to do more good things. In sya Allah, in the years to come.

    22 Oct (Saturday): The 2nd to Last Day of FBF
    Returning to the book fair on its public day, Zana, Mimi, and I conducted a workshop on how to create line drawings in a folded zine. As the day unfolded, we meandered through the halls, adding literary knowledge and treasures to our collection. The evening was reserved for a special dinner with MBKM, bringing together minds and stories.

    Photo by Zanariah Salam.

    23 Oct (Sunday): Farewell to the Book Fair and Frankfurt
    The last day at the book fair was bittersweet. We conducted another workshop, and this time, Mimi and Zana taught participants how to create pop-up zines and paper-cut art. We savoured the final session, explored the cosplay events, and bid adieu to the vibrant halls. A post-fair dinner at Alim Imbiss near the hostel added the perfect finishing touch to our Frankfurt adventure.

    24 Oct (Monday): Transition to Karlsruhe
    Checking out from Panorama Hostel, we bid farewell to Frankfurt and Zalila, while the rest of us ventured to Karlsruhe. Zalila could not take more leaves as she had work to attend to. A comfortable train journey brought us to our new abode, Harbour Apartments, where the promise of new experiences awaited.

    25 Oct (Tuesday): Exploring Heidelberg’s Landscape
    While Zalila set off for the airport in Frankfurt, we embarked on a train ride that led us to Heidelberg, where we immersed ourselves in the old town’s charm. From strolling along the Rhine River to exploring the historic castle, the day was a delightful mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty. We walked up to the hill where the Heidelberg castle is situated. I was catching my breath; nonetheless, the landscape was beautiful from up there.

    26 Oct (Thursday): Nature Retreat in Baden-Baden
    The allure of Baden-Baden beckoned, and we answered the call with a day trip. A train journey from Karlsruhe Hbf to Baden-Baden Hbf was followed by a scenic bus ride to Tiergartenweg. Our chosen route, the Korbmattfelsen circular path, offered a leisurely 1.5-hour hike amidst nature’s beauty, enjoyed by Adah, Nilam, and Yati while the rest of us stayed at the bottom–we were old ladies with back pain and weak knees, haha. We had our late lunch at a Turkish restaurant. The day was punctuated with moments of serenity, culminating in a return journey back to Karlsruhe.

    27/28 Oct (Saturday):
    As our time in Karlsruhe drew to a close, we explored a half-day adventure at Karlsruhe’s botanical garden. A leisurely picnic intertwined with sleeping under the sun, photographing, writing, and sketching allowed us to absorb the tranquillity of the surroundings. The afternoon was dedicated to exploring Karlsruhe by foot. We did some shopping.

    29 Oct (Sunday):
    We made a last-minute decision to visit Tumberg in Durlach in the early morning. We took a funicular train to reach the peak. We checked out from our abode at 6:45 pm as our flight the next day was at 05:30 in the morning. There were no public trains available after midnight. Transit at Sri Lanka airport was 12 hours, and we flew the next leg at 13:15 and reached KUL at 19:30.

    Photo by Norsa’adah Ahmad.

    That was the end of our journey to Germany in October 2022. A few months later, our book ‘Jerman, Kami Datang!’ was published.

    In the pages of “Jerman, Kami Datang!”, our collective of friends invites you on a literary and visual journey through the heart of Germany. This collaborative masterpiece weaves together essays, short stories, poems, artworks, and photographs, capturing the essence of our collective adventure.

    Our book is more than a mere travelogue; it’s a testament to the diverse ways in which we experienced and interpreted Germany. Each contributor found inspiration in a unique facet of our travels, whether it was the rich history, cultural encounters, or the sheer natural beauty that Germany offered.

    The essays within the book provide personal reflections and cultural observations, offering readers a nuanced and immersive experience of our time in Germany. Our collection of short stories takes you beyond the realms of reality, blending imagination with actual experiences to create captivating narratives set against the backdrop of Germany. Our poetic expressions capture the emotions, nuances, and fleeting moments that defined our German adventure.

    The visual elements of “Jerman, Kami Datang!” serve as a complement to the written word. Explore our collection of artworks and photographs that paint a vivid picture of the landscapes, architecture, and cultural moments we encountered.

    As we present “Jerman, Kami Datang!” to the world, we extend an invitation to relive the magic of our German escapade. Whether you are a fellow traveller, an art enthusiast, or someone with a passion for cultural exploration, we hope our collective work resonates with you.

    Jerman, Kami Datang! can be purchased at my store.

    Share your thoughts, memories, and questions about our German journey. Your engagement is a valued part of our narrative.

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  • Children's Book How-to,  CHILDREN'S LITERATURE

    The Uncompromising Quest for Quality in Children’s Picture Books: A Beginner’s Guide

    As you navigate the challenges of creating your first children’s picture book, remember this: do not compromise on quality. It may be tempting to take shortcuts, but each instance of compromise chips away at the integrity of your work. Upholding unwavering standards is not just about the first book; it’s about setting the standard high for the entire picture book industry.

    Importantly, as a beginner, resist the notion that you should be excluded from delivering a high-quality picture book. Every author and illustrator, regardless of experience, can create work that meets the highest standards. Your unique perspective and fresh ideas can bring a new and vibrant energy to the industry. Embrace the challenge and view it as an opportunity to contribute something exceptional to the world of children’s literature.

    By refusing to compromise on quality, you not only elevate your work but also challenge the misconception that beginners are exempt from producing top-notch content. Imagine a community where every creator, regardless of their experience level, is dedicated to delivering excellence. Your commitment to quality becomes a catalyst for positive change and progress within the industry.

    Here are some images of Zanariah Salam’s work in progress. She is fully dedicated to creating a quality picture book, maintaining a consistent style throughout. Photos are by Zanariah Salam.

    In conclusion, as you embark on your journey into the enchanting world of children’s literature, remember that an unwavering commitment to quality is the foundation upon which lasting success is built. Your dedication to creating high-quality children’s picture books not only ensures a positive experience for young readers but also sets the stage for a fulfilling and enduring career while challenging the belief that beginners cannot contribute significantly to the excellence of the picture book industry.

    Here are some tips you can use as guidelines:

    1. Professional Advice Matters: Once you’ve completed your mock-up, seek guidance from professionals in the industry. Engage with experienced authors, editors, or literary consultants who can provide insights and constructive feedback to refine your work further.
    2. Consistency in Style: Maintain consistency in your writing and illustration styles throughout the book. A cohesive and unified approach contributes to a polished and professional final product.
    3. Iterate and Refine Illustrations: If you are illustrating your book, iterate and refine your illustrations. Ensure that each image complements the text and adds depth and visual interest to the storytelling.
    4. Be Open to Revision: Be open to the revision process. It’s a natural part of creating a high-quality picture book. Embrace feedback, iterate on your work, and be willing to make changes that enhance the overall impact of your story.

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  • CHILDREN'S LITERATURE,  Picbook Review

    Buku Plogging membuka ruang membincangkan kelestarian alam dengan kanak-kanak

    Buku bergambar bertajuk ‘Plogging’ hasil tulisan dan ilustrasi Tun ‘Alia Nadirah adalah sebuah karya yang memperkenalkan tentang konsep plogging, konsep yang pertama kali diperkenalkan dalam buku bergambar kanak-kanak di Malaysia.

    Buku ini mengisahkan seorang ayah yang membawa tiga orang anaknya berlari santai di taman sambil membawa beg sampah. Di sepanjang larian, ayah menggalakkan anak-anaknya mengutip sampah. Apabila penat, mereka akan berehat sebentar sebelum menghabiskan larian. Aktiviti yang mereka lakukan ini dikenali sebagai plogging.

    Apa itu plogging? Istilah plogging ini berasal dari perkataan Swedish “plocka upp,” yang bermaksud “kutip,” dan kata Inggeris “jogging,” yang bermaksud lari santai. Aktiviti plogging melibatkan peserta yang berlari atau berjalan sambil memungut sampah di sepanjang laluan mereka.

    Idea utama di sebalik plogging adalah untuk mempromosikan kesihatan fizikal sambil menyumbang kepada kebersihan alam sekitar.

    Melalui teks dan ilustrasi yang mudah difahami, buku ini membuka ruang untuk perbincangan antara ibu bapa dan anak-anak atau guru dan anak-anak murid, tentang kelestarian alam dan cara-cara memberikan sumbangan positif kepada persekitaran.

    Karya pertama Alia ini diilustrasi menggunakan pen warna (magic colour) dan pensel warna yang kemudiannya diimbas dan digabungkan dengan elemen dan tektur menggunakan teknik kolaj digital. Walaupun ada ruang untuk pembaikan, namun usaha untuk melukis dan menerbit sendiri karya pertama beliau ini patut dipuji.

    Saiz: 20 cm x 20 cm
    Mukasurat: 24
    Kulit: Lembut
    ISBN: 9786299725909
    Jika berminat, boleh dapatkan buku Plogging daripada Tun ‘Alia Nadirah (Instagram).

    ***

    English version:

    Plogging Provides a Space for Discussing Environmental Sustainability with Children

    ‘Plogging,’ a picture book written and illustrated by Tun ‘Alia Nadirah, is a work that introduces the concept of plogging, a concept first introduced in a children’s picture book in Malaysia.

    The book tells the story of a father who takes his three children for a leisurely run in the park while carrying trash bags. Throughout the run, the father encourages his children to pick up litter. When tired, they take a short break before completing the run. This activity is known as plogging.

    So, what is plogging? The term “plogging” comes from the Swedish word “plocka upp,” which means “pick up,” and the English word “jogging,” which means leisurely running. Plogging involves participants running or walking while picking up trash along their route.

    The main idea behind plogging is to promote physical health while contributing to the cleanliness of the surrounding environment.

    Through easily understandable text and illustrations, this book provides a platform for discussions between parents and children, teachers and students about environmental sustainability and ways to contribute positively to the environment.

    Alia’s first work is illustrated using coloured pen (magic colour) and coloured pencil which are later scanned and combined with elements and textures using digital collage techniques. Although there is room for improvement, her efforts to paint and independently publish her first work are commendable.

    Size: 20 cm x 20 cm
    Pages: 24
    Cover: Soft
    ISBN: 9786299725909
    If you are interested, you can get the book directly from Tun ‘Alia Nadirah (Instagram).

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  • Movie Review

    Embracing Change: A Review of Miyazaki’s “The Boy and The Heron”

    In a world filled with diverse opinions, I wanted to share my perspective on Hayao Miyazaki’s latest animated gem, “The Boy and The Heron.” I know there are plenty of reviews out there, each offering a unique viewpoint. Here, I simply want to express what I think in my own words.

    Credit poster: Studio Ghibli Japan

    Having immersed myself in most of Miyazaki’s films, I’ve come to appreciate his ability to convey profound messages through captivating animation. Whether I fully grasp his intentions is a mystery, but isn’t that the beauty of art? It’s open to interpretation.

    Among the enchanting tales, my heart has found resonance in films like “From Up on Poppy Hill,” “Howl’s Moving Castle,” and the timeless “My Neighbor Totoro.” These favourites have, in a way, become my windows into Miyazaki’s world, each carrying a piece of his storytelling magic.

    So, armed with these cinematic experiences and genuine curiosity, let’s delve into “The Boy and The Heron,” a new chapter in Miyazaki’s storytelling odyssey.

    In “The Boy and The Heron”, Miyazaki artfully explores the inevitable passage of time, the acceptance of change, and the bittersweet beauty of saying goodbye.

    The protagonist, Mahito, embodies the film’s central theme, forced to confront loss and navigate the unstoppable force of change. Miyazaki’s storytelling prowess shines as Mahito grapples with the aching sense of nostalgia, reflecting on moments of the past that shape his present and future.

    At the heart of the narrative is the enigmatic character of the granduncle, a guardian of the past’s legacy, driven by the belief that the future must carry forth the responsibility of protecting it. However, Miyazaki skillfully weaves a tale where Mahito resists the granduncle’s intention to pass on this burden, signalling a departure from the past and an acceptance of change as an inherent part of life.

    The film introduces the symbolic Heron, a dynamic character that catalyzes Mahito’s journey into the past. Initially persuading Mahito to explore his history, the Heron takes on a transformative role, changing its motive and ultimately aiding Mahito in returning to the present. This avian guide becomes a multifaceted symbol, representing guidance, reflection, and the ever-changing nature of life.

    What sets “The Boy and The Heron” apart is its ability to evoke a profound emotional response, urging audiences to reflect on their relationships with the past and the inevitability of change. The refusal of Mahito to inherit the granduncle’s legacy becomes a powerful statement—a declaration that one must move forward, embracing the scars and uncertainties that accompany change.

    In true Miyazaki fashion, the film encourages viewers to appreciate the beauty of impermanence and the strength that comes from letting go. The Heron, a symbolic representation of nature and the cyclical nature of life is a powerful metaphor throughout the narrative.

    As Mahito and the Heron soar into the future, Miyazaki’s latest creation becomes a timeless reminder that, in the face of change, there is beauty in the journey, and sometimes, saying goodbye is the first step towards a new and unexpected adventure.

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  • CHILDREN'S LITERATURE,  Picbook Review

    Ilustrasi buku bergambar Semut Oh Semut membuktikan kepelbagaian teknik dan media seni boleh menjadikan buku lebih menarik dibaca

    “Semut Oh Semut” oleh Zanariah Salam adalah sebuah karya yang memikat hati dengan cerita mengenai semut hitam yang gigih bekerjasama melalui pelbagai rintangan untuk mengangkut makanan pulang ke sarang.

    Ilustrasinya, menggunakan teknik kolaj dengan pewarnaan kertas sebelum dipotong, memperlihatkan daya kreativiti yang tinggi. Potongan dibuat menggunakan gunting dan ada juga yang dikoyak dengan tangan untuk mendapatkan bentuk dan tekstur yang organik. Penggunaan teknik kolaj tidak hanya menghiasi, tetapi juga memberikan dimensi tambahan pada cerita.

    Walaupun teknik ini nampak mudah namun menurut ilustrator, yang juga penulis buku ini, Zanariah Salam, proses potong dan tampal merupakan satu proses yang mencabar. Setiap subjek perlu dipotong mengikut saiznya dan oleh kerana ada potongan yang bersaiz kecil, jika terjatuh ianya akan hilang dicelah-celah potongan yang lain.

    Walau bagaimana pun, ada juga bahagian proses yang disukainya—proses yang menurut beliau, merangsang sel-sel otak supaya bertindak lebih cergas. Contohnya ketika menampal kolaj. Waktu ini beliau akan mengubahsuai susunatur papan cerita dan menggubahnya mengikut gerak rasa, permainan warna dan cara potongan.

    Dengan 24 mukasurat dan teks yang mesra kanak-kanak, buku ini menjanjikan pengalaman membaca dan belajar yang menyeronokkan untuk kanak-kanak berusia 6 tahun ke bawah. Disamping membaca, buku ini juga boleh dijadikan rujukan aktiviti seni kolaj.

    Saiz: 20 cm x 20 cm
    Kulit lembut
    ISBN 9786299665229
    Jika berminat, boleh dapatkan buku Semut Oh Semut daripada Zanariah Salam (Instagram) dan juga secara fizikal di Museum of Picture Book Art, GMBB, Jalan Robertson, Kuala Lumpur.

    ***

    The illustrations in the picture book “Semut Oh Semut” showcase the diversity of techniques and artistic media that can make a book more engaging to read.

    “Semut Oh Semut” by Zanariah Salam is a captivating work that tells the story of diligent black ants working together to overcome various obstacles in transporting food back to their nest. The illustrations, using collage techniques with pre-coloured paper before being cut, showcase a high level of creativity. Pieces are crafted using scissors, and some are torn by hand to achieve organic shapes and textures. The use of collage techniques not only embellishes but also adds an extra dimension to the story.

    Although this technique may seem simple, according to the illustrator and author of this book, Zanariah Salam, the cutting and glueing process is a challenging one. Each subject needs to be cut according to its size, and due to some small-sized pieces, if they fall, they might get lost among other cutouts.

    However, there are also parts of the process that she enjoys—the process that, according to her, stimulates brain cells to function more actively. For example, during the collage glueing, she modifies the arrangement of the storyboard, adapting it to feelings, colour play, and cutting techniques.

    With 24 pages and child-friendly text, this book promises an enjoyable reading and learning experience for children aged 6 and below. Beyond reading, the book can also serve as a reference for collage art activities.

    Size: 20 cm x 20 cm
    Softcover
    ISBN 9786299665229
    You can buy this book from the author on her IG page: Zanariah Salam (Instagram as well as at the Museum of Picture Book Art, GMBB, Jalan Robertson, Kuala Lumpur physically.

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