Soonchild by Russell Hoban and Alexis Deacon

This book came to me highly recommended by someone who has a good eye for the brilliant. On top of that, Patrick Ness, with whom I’m more than a little obsessed, is quoted on the cover saying “Hoban is the best sort of genius.” Further, I’ve had a soft spot for Alexis Deacon ever since I read ‘Beegu’.

All in all, I was pretty geared up to read it. And it didn’t disappoint.

Rather than reading the back or anything, I jumped straight into it taking what I found as I went. Immediately I was immersed in the ‘The North’, “where’s it so cold that your nose hairs get stiff and your eyeballs get brittle and your face hurts and your hands will freeze if you leave them uncovered for too long… Where the polar bear walks alone and is never lost.” Hoban’s words conjured up that north in my mind with just enough detail to guide me through it, without so much that my imagination didn’t have room to play in the snow.

Then we met Sixteen-Face John, Sharman of his village and (he discovers early on) father to be. Only, his wife, No Problem, is concerned that Soonchild isn’t moving, not one kick, and isn’t getting ready to come into the world. John sets out on a quest to bring back the World Songs – the music that stirs all soonchildren to leave the womb. So for the first time ever, he makes a Big-Dream Brew and embarks on a spiritual journey that will, ultimately, save the world.

Mystical, arresting, and inspiring, Soonchild is an amazing book that will have you feeling like you are on the Big-Dream journey with John. The conversations with the various spirits – animal & ancestral – are magical and amusing. This really is a book that you experience and remember.

Alexis Deacon’s illustrations are dark, sparse, and ethereal: EXACTLY what was needed to accompany such brilliant text.

Keep in mind this won't be everyone's cup of 'big-dream brew' as it is a bit left of center; but then again, most outstanding things are.

4.5 Gold Stars

Find it on Goodreads