Kirrily Lowe (text) Henry Smith (illus.), The Invisible Tree : Kindness, Wombat Books, June 2016, Unpaged, $18.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781925139723
This colourful picture book is a joyful dance which leads to insight and happiness. Full of vibrant colour and unusual and evocative images it leaves the reader with the feeling of wanting to go back to the beginning and relive the experience. Every double page spread is a work of art with text and illustrations working in complete harmony. There is so much to notice and enjoy: the African animals, the vivid sunsets, the bright sunny days, the sparse thoughtful text and superb collages.
Kindness is a feast of fruits in many ways as the reader becomes part of a little girl’s journey to find and keep “kindness.” It teaches children to find happiness by helping with a giving heart through small acts of kindness. The metaphor of the fruitful tree which produces kindness, love, joy and other gifts works well to inspire the reader to think of others.
Written by Kirrily Lowe and illustrated by Henry Smith with love and exuberance, both creators of the book reveal they are involved in the non-denominational Christian “Compassion” child sponsorship program. The underlying Christian message of treating others as you would like to be treated is presented in many subtle ways through both text and illustrations.
Kindness is the latest book in The Invisible Tree series which includes titles such as Joy, Love, Patience, etc. The series aims to promote these positive values in young people. The life-affirming text encourages an optimistic and active attitude to the world and personal relationships, and would be a worthwhile addition to any primary school library.
Reviewed by Grace Nolan