Simple, relatable and beautifully executed, Skunk and Sniffy, written by Muireann Ní Chíobháin and illustrated by Paddy Donnelly, is a delightful tale of comfort lost and found. The story introduces little Skunk and his well-loved cuddly toy and comfort item, Sniffy. When Sniffy goes missing and isn’t in his usual hiding places, panic ensues.
And when Skunk is finally reunited with his friend, something is not right – he has lost his familiar smell! Skunk is heartbroken but Mama saves the day with some comfort of her own.
The story moves at a nice, steady pace and is told using simple yet playful language. It is a joy to read aloud, thanks to Ní Chíobháin’s punchy sentences, easy rhythm and careful use of emboldening, exclamation points and capitalisation.
The interplay of text and imagery works wonderfully well. With plenty of squiggly stink lines and details that invite pause, Donnelly’s bright, fun and characterful illustrations help us to understand just how much Sniffy (and Mama) means to Skunk.
This is a story that will resonate with toddlers, preschoolers, infant class pupils, parents and anyone who has ever had something, or someone, that makes the world feel just right.
By Karen Campbell, mother of 3 and lover of children’s literature, Co. Wexford.
“Skunk and Sniffy” by Muireann Ní Chíobháin, illustrated by Paddy Donnelly, published by O’ Brien Press, is now on sale for €10.99 (P/B).
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher, O’ Brien Press, free of charge to Seomra Ranga for the purposes of this review.
