REVIEW: Cloud Forest
"A story will help," said Umpa. "Stories make everything grow."
Together, the child in this story and their Umpa go on fantastical adventures together through the power of books and storytelling, sailing away on the rain and dining with hosts of magical imagined friends. One day, however, Umpa is no longer there, and it is up to the child to discover that their Umpa can still be found in the stories they shared together and the books they loved.
Turnbull's beautiful picture book not only addresses the incredible power of stories and the ways they can transport us, but also the harsh unfamiliarity and helplessness of grief, especially for children who often struggle to process these feelings. In tones that echo the eloquence of Oliver Jeffers' The Heart and the Bottle, and Benji Davies' Grandad's Island, Turnbull has addressed the loss of a grandparent with a delicacy and kindness that children will find comfort in. Even as an adult, it reminded me that the people I have lost will always be there in the things we shared together.
It would be remiss in talking about Cloud Forest to not address the illustrations that beautifully cover the pages. Turnbull has shown her ability to create beautiful and whimsical images in her previous picture books and this one is no different. Her use of colour is muted but warm, effective with gentle pops of brightness that keep this story feeling dreamy and cosy to read. The continued visual theme of colours and smoke to indicate the dreamy quality of the scenes is unifying imagery that maintains the feel of the story.
Ultimately this is a beautiful book that would be an asset to your bookshelf, both as a lovely story and a learning tool in difficult times.
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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review