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A review by laydownyoursoul
Tales from Moominvalley by Tove Jansson
4.0
A breath of fresh air, such a fun read!
Really enjoyed the way these stories immerse you in the natural world, I felt the need to get outside coming over me reading about bark scrolls, sitting in treetops, cleaning things in the sea, exploring empty islands etc. And the final story being Christmas themed made this very atmospheric to read in the winter.
The different species and characters were great, some of them hilariously charming. The character of Teety-Woo is a prime example, loved their design and arc. Also enjoyed the fun take on more realistic dialogue, with people mumbling because they don't know what to say, or telling others to stop interrupting.
Very interesting seeing the messages or themes that feel more adult throughout these stories. In particular the idea of needing time apart from people, wanting freedom and having to figure things out for yourself, I can see resonating differently with different age ranges. I found the grumpy but kind-hearted characters delightful, and there were a few of those. Some life-affirming messages across the stories, in particular I enjoyed the ones that explored starting over in various ways.
Some striking moments of imagery in the writing. And really, really loved the artwork. Brought the characters to life, and it was great having more sketchy pieces alongside elaborate polished scenes that took up whole pages.
I need more of this and thankfully there is more to explore in this world.
Really enjoyed the way these stories immerse you in the natural world, I felt the need to get outside coming over me reading about bark scrolls, sitting in treetops, cleaning things in the sea, exploring empty islands etc. And the final story being Christmas themed made this very atmospheric to read in the winter.
The different species and characters were great, some of them hilariously charming. The character of Teety-Woo is a prime example, loved their design and arc. Also enjoyed the fun take on more realistic dialogue, with people mumbling because they don't know what to say, or telling others to stop interrupting.
Very interesting seeing the messages or themes that feel more adult throughout these stories. In particular the idea of needing time apart from people, wanting freedom and having to figure things out for yourself, I can see resonating differently with different age ranges. I found the grumpy but kind-hearted characters delightful, and there were a few of those. Some life-affirming messages across the stories, in particular I enjoyed the ones that explored starting over in various ways.
Some striking moments of imagery in the writing. And really, really loved the artwork. Brought the characters to life, and it was great having more sketchy pieces alongside elaborate polished scenes that took up whole pages.
I need more of this and thankfully there is more to explore in this world.