Saranohair

Anne Hutchings is a public-school teacher and librarian in Ajax,
Ontario.

Sisters Saranohair and O-Stefanefanie, having nothing better to do one
day, decide to dig a hole in the sand. When Saranohair falls into the
hole and disappears, O-Stefanefanie is faced with four alternatives: run
for help; start to cry; live happily ever after; or jump into the hole
to rescue Saranohair.

O-Stefanefanie chooses all four plans of attack. She jumps in the hole
and ends up on top of Saranohair’s head on the other side of the
world, where the two of them are mistaken for a wonderful hat. When
danger, in the form of Madama Drat-I-Gotta-Hava-Hat, threatens, it is
Saranohair who is faced with four alternatives. Without hesitating, she
knows just what to do to ensure their survival.

The book’s design is highly unusual. Pen-and-ink sketches, complete
with captions (reminiscent of children’s work) are printed entirely on
unbleached or green newsprintlike paper. But it is the binding that is
most intriguing: bound along the short side, the book is read
vertically, from top to bottom.

The fanciful story will be enjoyed by young children, while the unique
format will delight older readers. Highly recommended for all ages.