Mary Poppins by P.L. Travers, Geneviève Godbout, Amy Novesky
Published by HMH Books for Young Readers on October 23rd 2018
ISBN: 1328916774
Pages: 32
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Mary Poppins by Mary P.L. Travers, adapted by Amy Novesky, and illustrated by Genevieve Godbout is a picture book story. It gives the reader/listener a very brief introduction to the classic character. Most modern children will never read the 202 page original work, and so this picture book is more an introduction to the movies. There is a glimmer of some of the fun, unpredictable spirit of the nanny. The children’s and their nanny’s fantastical adventures are mentioned in just a few sentences for each. The illustrations are done in soft pastel and colored pencils and show wide eyed, expressive children. Mary is prettier and younger than the original illustrations by Mary Shepard and more a nod towards the movie portrayals. Since the story goes from 202 to 32 pages, it is unfortunate the adapter’s name is left off the cover and back flap. Recommended as an additional purchase for large collections in libraries serving children ages three through six. Reviewed by Margy Soule, Coffin School, Brunswick.