“No milk,” I said.
“No milk,” said my sister.
I watched my dad think about this. He looked like he was going to suggest that we have something for breakfast that you do not need milk for, like sausages, but then he looked like he remembered that, without milk, he couldn’t have his tea. He had his “no tea” face.
“You poor children,” he said. “I will walk down to the shop on the corner. I will get milk.”
What’s the Story?
A father goes on an adventure through space and time, braving aliens, pirates, vampires and more.
His mission: to return home with the milk for his children’s breakfast cereal.
At about 8,000 words, Neil Gaiman’s Fortunately, The Milk isn’t so much a picture book as it is a book with pictures. Or, perhaps, a chapter book without chapters. It’s long enough to be read over several sessions but good luck with that. The book defies you to put it down.
The first time I picked up Fortunately, The Milk I was glued to the page and so were my kids. I didn’t put it down until about forty minutes later when we reached the end. Afterwards, my six-year old daughter picked it up and pored over the pictures for another twenty minutes.
The story is full of fun and unexpected details that will keep readers guessing. Gaiman’s characters are vibrant and engaging, and his vivid descriptions of the many creatures and locations that the father encounters allow readers to experience the story as if they were there. The language is simple and accessible, making it a perfect read-aloud for parents and children to enjoy together.
Why is it Great?
It’s not common for a children’s story to feature an adult protagonist but don’t let that sour your opinion of Fortunately, The Milk.
Dad (we’re never given a name) isn’t the bumbling father trope so overused for an easy gag. He’s intelligent, creative, and most of all he loves his kids. He makes mistakes (he’s not a good a cook) but that makes him human, which is the point. Dad is just a regular guy who wants to get home with the milk for his kids’ cereal and that’s enough to save the day.
Gaiman has created a unique and delightful story that will entertain readers of all ages. The story will capture the imaginations of children, while adults can appreciate its humor and wit.
The illustrations by Skottie Young are just as vibrant, imaginative, and captivating as the story itself. Young’s illustrations bring the characters and scenes to life, making the story even more enjoyable.
Overall, Fortunately, The Milk is a delightful story full of humor, adventure, and fatherly love. Gaiman’s inventive and whimsical writing style combined with Young’s zany art brings this humorous story to life and will keep readers captivated until the very end.
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