The Axeman's Carnival

This book is one of the best Bookish Surprises I have ever I received and, without a doubt, one of the most original books I have ever read. This book, and Tama, has lived in mind on so many levels since the first page! I mean how many books can you say are narrated by a magpie from the time it is hatched. Tama is a total scene stealer and he is everything that creates a wonderfully vivid and mythic character that is like the Trickster god Loki has taken form to live in New Zealand.

If that reminds you of the awe and wonder that you felt when you were younger reading Peter Rabbit or Charlotte's Web, then you know right where you I am coming from. However, just as all these stories have a deeper darker edge that you only saw in retrospect after growing up, then you are homing in on how I still feel after finish The Axeman's Carnival a while age.

This book is filled with emotion. There is such sadness and longing for family by every character in this book that you feel as if you are walking beside each of them in turn and, I am no sure hiw Chidgey did but but every farm yard animals is a living and breathing character, despite not being able to speak like Tama. This book will have you rooting for rain fall and grow them grass to eat. And, as much as there is a character here that I didn't want to feel for - no spoilers - Chidgey's story presents each one in a way that will break your heart in so many different ways because of their human-ness. But always at the heart of the story is Tama with his spoken words that draw you back and make you smile and laugh despite yourself and the circumstances that the characters find themselves in.

Tama's voice is one that cannot be replicated and one that will transport you to the New Zealand Highlands.