Two seals cling to a rock which is dangerously close to being swamped by the sea. Nearby is a much larger and safer rock with a group of seals. These seals believe there is definitely no room on their rock for others. They show no compassion or empathy for those in danger telling them, ‘Shoo! Go away!’ Read the book in reverse though and it is a different tale, one of kindness, compassion and welcome.
The book uses an innovative writing style that can be described as ‘reverse poetry’. Reading from front to back it appears fairly straightforward in its language and use of form but what makes it special is that it can be read in reverse presenting a different story and yet maintaining the same form and rhythmic patterns. Something not easy to achieve.
Of equal importance is the visual narrative. Illustrator Terri Rose Banyon’s artwork reflects the text with the situation and facial expressions of the different seals matching the text whichever way you are reading the book. She uses a subdued palette of soft blue-grey watercolour tones for the marine environment graduating the colours and tones for the water and the rocks. This gives prominence to the figures, the rocks and the larger waves and to the text.
The story presents a dilemma all too common in today’s world—refugees and immigration. Two seals seeking safety are turned away, told to go back to their now dangerous home. They are shown no compassion, no empathy, and no consideration of sharing by their own kind. It also presents a different story one where those in need of help are welcomed with kindness and care.
In a world where the plight of many people suffering in wars or from natural disasters is increasing ‘Room on Our Rock’ provides an ideal starting point for discussion. We are given two sides, two points of view, and an insight into the issues of an existing and growing crisis in our world. This is a clever picture book that shows, as its cover states, ‘there are two sides to every story.’
Picture Books for Older Readers
