Spotlight on Silvey's dog

by LES EVERETT

MANY readers of Craig Silvey's fine debut Rhubarb fell in love with the canine character Warren. His long waited second effort is a picture book 'written' by the dog.

With illustrations by Sonia Martinez, The World According to Warren is a book of great silliness and great depth.

It's a fine companion piece for those who enjoyed the novel and should stand on its own for younger readers who may one day find their way to Rhubarb.

The story ebbs and flows with canine boasting, caring and philosophising. Martinez's work is detailed and full of fun, mystery and hints at Rhubarb - those randy possums are just about everywhere, Lillian the cello is there and if you look carefully you might find a hermit crab or two - text from the novel is even woven into the artwork in places. It's the kind of work that will bring readers back to the book time and time again.

The World According to Warren must be one of the most unusual literary follow-ups ever conceived. It works beautifully.

The World According to Warren as told to Craig Silvey with pictures by Sonia Martinez is published by Fremantle Press.

27 July 2007

australianrules.com.au

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