Book Review: Being Zelda by Russell Irving

 Being Zelda

by

Russell Irving

Publisher: Self Published

Publication date: 24th April 2023

Genre: Children's Picture Book

Pages: 42

Source: Courtesy of the author

 

Review: Being Zelda

Russell Irving has written and illustrated a fascinating story about the Mantis shrimp. They can pack a mighty punch and accelerate faster than a bullet.

 

Shrimps, like humans, have different personalities and motivations.

Zelda is outgoing she wants to know what is beyond her burrow. She is curious about the bluefin tuna and the humpback whales. George is an introvert, preferring to stay in his burrow. He helps Zelda to explore the ocean in a safe way.

 

Irving's art is subtle and calming he uses the colours of the ocean floor and the swirling pastels of the coral spawn in his water-wash illustrations.

 

Being Zelda was an enjoyable story about a little adventurous shrimp however I don't think the children understood the concept of the different personalities. I think this needs to be spelt out clearly in the text. 

Being Zelda is a calming nature book that is enjoyable simply for its illustrations of the ocean floor and ocean life.

4 / 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

About the author

Russell Irving is a contented introvert who enjoys small gatherings, inner reflection and quiet time in nature. He has spent most of his professional life living and working as an environmental manager and educator across regional and remote parts of Australia, including many years working with the Aboriginal Ranger groups and in Indigenous Protected Areas.

These experiences have taught him the calming and healing benefits of spending quiet time in nature, learning to watch, listen and learn.