My children were equally surprised and intrigued to find the loving grandmother referring to her grandson as “mon petit chou”, my little cabbage. My husband and I were both surprised to find that this traditional song - which many commit to memory in childhood without understanding its meaning - details the rather explicit, and somewhat taunting plucking of a lark.
Illustrated by Gilles Pelletier, the bold, saturated colours are reminiscent of folk-art. Executed in dense, opaque oils in a warmly inviting palette, each picture breathes anticipation and excitement. Simple forms, figures and shapes fill each page to the brim, creating riotous scenes filled with activity, life and joy. Each painted scene is broad, capturing landscape, central and peripheral characters, and all manners of detail in the surroundings.
The inclusion of such detail in each illustration draws readers into the pictures. The Sugaring-Off Party is best read slowly, each page lingered over in order to allow the necessary time to visually gather in the many events that are taking place within each page.
Serving up timeless Quebecois culture and traditions, a hands-on perspective of simple maple syrup/sugar production, and a glimpse into Canada’s past The Sugaring-Off Party will engage and delight all who peruse it.
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