Under A Silver Moon

Anne Fine (author)

Lotte Klaver (illustrations)

Walker Books, UK: 2010; 58pp

ISBN: 9781406319231

Genres: allegory, folk/fairytale

Issues: equality, personal responsibility, wisdom

Haroun is the Sultan's son, Akil the son of the palace gardener. As toddlers they play together happily, oblivious to the social differences that will later force them apart. When Haroun is tormented by pains that no doctor can treat, no soft bed can comfort, no service can ease, will the friend of his childhood be able to help him? And will Haroun accept the help?

This charming allegorical tale from British Children's Laureate (2001-2003), Anne Fine, has all the elements of a classic morality fable such as those of the great Aesop. Who is actually better off - the rich prince whose every whim is indulged or the poor gardener who must work hard for a living? Fine's ability to craft concise, eloquent prose with the rhythm and repetition of oral tradition mark this as a story to be read aloud. From the beautiful cover design to the pictures on almost every page, Klaver's drawings have an energy and detail that carries the apparently simple story well beyond the text. They give personality to minor characters and greater depth to major ones, as well as emphasizing the significance of the garden Haroun and Akil build between them.

Highly recommended.