Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
Lovey and Dovey
Illustrator: Mies van Hout
Picture Book
For ages 5 to 7
Lemniscaat, 2009 ISBN: 978-1590786604
Lovey and Dovey are a pair of robbers who stole a pair of blue socks and who are now in a “dismal dungeon.” Though they feel lucky to have each other, Lovey cannot help wishing that they had a better view. Because he loves Lovey so much, Dovey squeezes through the bars of their cell (he is very thin) and he brings his lady love a view of “sun and sea.”
In the days that follow this first escape, Dovey leaves the cell regularly to bring his beloved other things that will make their cell more pleasant. Soon the cell contains the moon and some stars, an apple tree, a pond, and a haystack. Lovey and Dovey are “pretty snug” in their cell.
Then the robbers are released into a cold, gray, and damp world. If only they were back in their cell.
This warm and delightfully unique picture book will give readers a delightful respite from the everyday world. Not only is the story quite charming, but the illustrations are sprinkled with clever little vignettes that children will enjoy looking at.
