Storytime Issue 141 – Ready, Set, Adventure!
Summer is coming… and so is the spirit of adventure! Issue 141 of Storytime is bursting with bold characters who chart their own courses, sail in the big open sea following their hearts and prove that every one of us is the hero or heroine of our own story. Get inspired by this band of all-sizes (and kinds of) adventurers and look forward to a summer like no other!
Our cover story sets the tone with one amazing girl. ‘The Pirate Queen of China’ follows the extraordinary Shi Yang, who grows up to become the greatest pirate who ever sailed the seas. This is a tale of ambition, courage and sheer unstoppable will – and Cuong Pham’s illustrations bring every wave-crashing, flag-flying moment to life with stunning flair.
Adventure also calls from the skies in ‘The Best Nest’in which two seagulls must figure out how to build a cosy home together. Home is where the heart is, and Steven Short’s charming story with beautiful pictures by Jessica Antonini reminds us that sometimes the bravest thing is having the courage to build your dreams.
Speaking of creating something magical: in ‘The Kitchen Prince’little Auguste discovers that the kitchen is a place of wonder. He may not have wanted to become a cook, but destiny (and perhaps a little magic) has other plans! Emilia Rivera’s illustrations make this delicious tale a feast for the eyes.
Our tricksters and quick-thinkers are not to be underestimated either! In ‘How the Dragon Was Tricked’a mischievous boy named Tom must use all his wits to outwit a clever foe – and Aalyiah Bell’s dynamic art keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout.
Meanwhile, in ‘The Proud Rooster’a vain cockerel feels heroic when he becomes the perfect target for a cunning fox… Will he escape? Polina Povshedna’s lively illustrations make this classic fable a lot of fun.
Sometimes the heroic journey takes you away from home. In ‘Yianko and the Sea Mother’a fisherman’s son must flee the clutches of a powerful ocean goddess! A myth-soaked adventure rendered in gorgeous, atmospheric colours by Julia Us.
And even Wonderland has its own tales of courage, a perfect adventure for bedtime! In ‘The Cheshire Cat Finds His Grin’it’s Alice who steps up to help her feline friend rediscover his smile. Sasha Zinch’s enchanting artwork gives a fresh and whimsical glow to our favourite wonderland!
Finally, as heroes can come in unexpected forms, in our STEM time they come as two brainy brothers! ‘Going Viral’ is the true story of how a pair of young computer whizzes created a computer virus and influenced the world of technology forever. Paulo Pazciencia’s art brings this true tale crackling to life.
Every character in this issue reminds us that the adventure of your own life can be the greatest story ever told. So pick up Issue 141, enjoy eight new tales, and remember to have fun all the way. Happy reading, fellow adventurers!