It was a picture book kind of day and Edelweiss was very obliging with the future publications being available. One due late May/early April 2023 was The Magic Cap. This fairytale (possible retelling, but modern tones) is about two siblings who lived in a cottage next to the woods. This was long ago, and they had just themselves (Arlo and Isaura), their pet hedgehog, Crispin but little else. When Crispin becomes ill the children try to capture a gnome for help. Things do not work out as hoped, but they turn out even better. The end.
The publisher description says, “A heartwarming tale about devotion and generosity for all lovers of gnomes and whimsical forest creatures.” And this is covered in a mostly direct manner, and yes, if you like whimsy this is the book for you.
It is a simple story, with magical elements and poetic text by Mirelle Messier and equally poetic images by Charlotte Parent. The illustrations can mostly be judged by the cover, except there are more colors and the children of the story are a bit more solid and “fleshed out” compared to the simplicity of the gnomes. There is a classical look to the art and a tone that is reminiscent of Scandinavian folklore. The overall presentation is relatable and understandable to the modern reader. One might not understand why two children are living alone, or how one small bowl of milk was able to satisfy several of the animals, or how Crispin magically gets better, but take it for what it is.
Not for the very young or sensitive child (the images of Crispin when sick are not pleasant) but most ages will be fine with it.