Night Noises

Funny book by our favorite Australia author, Mem Fox. And yet there is a deeper message about loyalty (her dog) and family. Anyone with an elderly relative can really relate!

This is a cute story about one wild winter night. Lily Laceby, a very old lady, is busy sitting and dreaming by the fire, oblivious to all the noises going on around her. The noises are made by a group of people massing outside her front door. When she is woken up by their knock on the door, she finds all her friends and family there, wishing her a happy birthday. The story loses a lot of charm in the description above, partly because the author does such a good job telling the tale. Also, the sounds made are emphasized by the font, and style choices of the words, another part of this book's charm. The illustrations are not exactly my favorite, but they suit the book very well. They are colorful, but not bold nor clearly defined. Other than a slight dislike of the illustrations though, it is a good book. Loggie-log-log-log

Mem Fox's story about the evening adventure of an older lady is told with dignity and joy. As Lily dozes by the fire, she dreams of her life and how it has changed. What an excellent way to introduce children to the concept that as they grow and change, the important things stay the same, such as love and family. It is also a delightful way to assure young children that though family members and neighbors may be old and seem very different, they have lived a life very similar. In our society, often the elderly are portrayed as a burden and not a blessing. Instead of focusing upon the contributions that these people have made, and continue to make, we discuss the burden of "caring for them." This book is a great way to show young children what older people may really be like. Most importantly, it is a sweet book about a delightful old lady and her adorable dog. Children and adults alike will be enthralled by the fabulous illustrations and the mystery of the "Night Noises." This is a book I highly recommend to all readers of quality children's literature. If you have never enjoyed a Mem Fox story before, this is a fabulous way to find a new favorite author.