My dad, my rock by Victor D.O. Santos. Illus. by Anna Forlati

For a reading of this book, go here. In short pithy sentences, Santos gives the readers a lot to think about with reference to their fathers. The narrator’s grandfather is no longer there and so Oliver tells us that he never met him, but neither did his father. So he tells us the things about his father that he would like his grandfather to know about his son. 

He has the same number of arms, legs and eyes as any other dad, but he calls him octopus dad as he sees him, even when he is behind him, and always knows when to reach out a hand to help. He makes lots of jokes, and laughs a lot, ignoring others.  He says that those who laugh, joke and love, live longer! He teaches him how to do things, rather than doing them for him.

He encourages him to read and says being without a book is like a house without a heart. When Oliver is angry he must count to ten, and although he cannot see the reason for this, when he gets to ten, he has forgotten why he was angry. 

Hugs are food for the heart.

He always believes in Oliver, telling him he can be anything he wants. My grandfather never knew my dad but he would be proud of him, and my children will be proud of their grandfather.

Beautiful illustrations will entrance the readers as they hear the text and survey the pages.The soft palette of sepia colours embrace the mood of the story, making it at once magical and universal as well as talking of the here and now. Children will love looking at all the things their fathers do with them, making them feel included and special.

A wonderful story for the times, and with Father’s day coming up, one to be shared.

Themes: Fathers, Childhood, Love, Grandfathers.

Fran Knight