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The Day Dad Blew Up the Cowshed

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Jennifer Somervell

NZ $23.99

A bright, vibrant picture book set on a farm, Silodale, in Central Hawke's Bay, it tells the true story of the day Jennifer and Margery’s father blew up the old cowshed and the resulting mayhem.

It is told from a child’s perspective in rhyming verse with bright energetic illustrations. I especially liked the illustration of the startled, stressed telephone which looks as if it may have been on a party line.

The book is suitable for children aged 5 to 9 and will appeal to boys although there may be a few adults who find the story brings back memories. It took me back to when friends of my father used number 8 fencing wire and the odd stick of gelignite to take care of "little problems”.