The Duke of Hinklewinkle by John Phillips
Big Sky, 2018. ISBN 9781925675153
Bridget lives in the sleepy, seaside town of Hinklewinkle. She
spends a lot of time with her Grandpa because her mother often has
to work late and her father lives in another town. Grandpa breeds
show chickens and Bridget loves to help him out. One day when
Bridget is feeling a little lonely, Grandpa decides to let Bridget
pick a chicken of her own. Far from picking the most beautiful
chicken, she picks a strange looking rooster - a Big Beaked
Pencilled Hortner which she names the 'Duke of Hinklewinkle'. The
two become inseparable, with the Duke of Hinklewinkle following her
like a pet puppy.
Next door lives Mr Borewater who also breeds show chickens and he
and Grandpa are bitter rivals, but when Mr Borewater's chickens are
under threat, The Duke of Hinklewinkle surprises everyone.
This is a delightful story that is just fun to read. While the theme
of chooks in books is not new, this one is full of family love and
humour and accompanied by bright, cartoon-like pictures that will
attract the reluctant reader immediately. Something to share just
for the fun of it - is there a better reason?
Barbara Braxton