Without words and with lyrical paintings, Nonny Hogrogian shows us that every part of a picture book counts when you have a story to tell. It begins on the cover in darkness, with a black and white cat carrying a box. On the front endpapers we assume we see that same cat making its way through a barren landscape of rocks, broken trees and garbage. And he moves on. The title page has more light, and shows him opening the brown box and removing something, while a small mouse looks on. The tin cans and old bottles have a bit more color and the horizon is brighter with the sunlight but it remains a dreary spot.
As we move forward with the story we watch the cat remove paints and brushes from the box and use them to brighten his world, adding sky and plants. When the mouse picks up a brush to assist him we cannot help but notice that there is another observer. This time a young rabbit is their amused visitor. The landscape continues its transformation and soon other creatures of the environment are joining the procession, one in which we all want a part. Work done, paintbrushes gathered and stowed, the cat waves a thankful goodbye and is on his way. Meanwhile, the helpers join hands in celebration of their shared work. As we watch him leave this lovely new landscape we see the cat stop to smell a red rose, before he finally takes his rest. The back endpapers show a world of great change and enduring beauty.
It's been a long while since this thoughtful and skilled artist has shared her craft with picture book readers. I hope it is just the beginning of a resurgence!
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