Lost for Words, by Natalie Russell; Peachtree Publishers, $16.95, 32 pages, ages 4-6.

Most writers with a deadline to meet have at least on occasion been afflicted with a debilitating case of writer’s block. In Natalie Russell’s latest offering we meet Tapir, a creature armed with fresh supplies of pencil and paper but utterly unable find a suitable topic. In search of inspiration he visits Giraffe the poet, Hippo the adventure writer and Flamingo the composer.  All write in different ways, and although Tapir doesn’t realize that right away, he soon discovers just how to express himself best.

Russell’s screen prints are at once gentle and bright. Charming illustrations of jungle creatures are set against a backdrop of saturated colors, creating a sub-Saharan fantasy world of hot pink flowers and tangerine skies.  Russell’s message that creativity is unlimited and cannot be forced will motivate artists and writers of all ages to follow their own creative groove.   

Pub Date: March 1, 2014