My Vancouver Sketchbook

Nikki Tate-Stratton writes novels for preteens; her latest books are
Jo’s Triumph; Jessa Be Nimble, Rebel Be Quick; Raven’s Revenge; and
Tarragon Island.

This picture book depicts a child sketching well-known locations in and
around Vancouver. Using the theme of a child capturing images of the
city is a good way to tie together the book’s series of short, simple
poems. The result is a logical and cohesive package. The poems cover
temporal territory from Captain Vancouver to contemporary festivals on
the beach and represent many local landmarks like Stanley Park, Robson
Street, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and the Nitobe Memorial Gardens.
Recognizing these locations will delight youngsters who live in the area
or who have come to visit.

While the concept is great fun (and an excellent idea for a souvenir
book for young visitors), neither the illustrations nor the text are as
satisfying as they could be. Perry’s rhymes are, at times, strained
(“I’ve time to take / A short art lesson: / Painting the boats /
Making an impression”) or uninspired (“Under the willows / A
butterfly, / Painted yellow, / Flutters by”). There are few places
where the language really sparkles or when the poems offer deeper
insights or a unique or unusual way of looking at the world.

Likewise, the illustrations, though colorful, could have included more
detail and technical accuracy without becoming labored or overcrowded.
Recommended with reservations.