"Jebley and Souffle, a Story of Play" is unique within the children's literature space. A bit of an ode to Moore's "The Night Before Christmas" in its rhythm, a hint of Seuss, and a lengthier structure made manageable by a 'choose your own adventure' format, it is a story of a horse and lion, of two friends journeying by rhyme through the idyllic scenes of childhood and imagination. It refreshingly emphasizes play, warmth, and comfort, while complimenting the traditional childhood routines of napping and sleeping. It is meant to be a celebration of the safe roots and heart of the childhood experience of play. Reinforcing a beautiful message is beautiful artwork-details are not overwhelming, and yet even the texture of the canvas is still visible to entertain the eyes. The Concept: Jebley and Souffle embark on wonderful adventures through the mechanism of a magical elevator, whisked away to idyllic locations familiar to most children. In being able to 'choose' a floor, the story becomes shorter or longer based on the whim of the reader.
With a poetic, stylized writing, the work is intended to be read to the 2-4 year old, with the aim that a 5-6 year old can read it both to enjoy and to become familiarized with new vocabulary. The overall intent is to bring together parent and child, teacher and student, adult and little one, while imparting fun, joy, the familiar, and rhythm into the young one's experience of reading. In addition, a generic prayer to 'the Lord,' and themes of both napping and sleeping, render the book a potential favorite at both of these regular times for young ones. The combination of rich language, beautiful art, and directional storytelling set this book apart and will draw the reader to return again and again.