Taming the Sun
Retold and illustrated by Gavin Bishop
Published by Random House Nz Ltd 2004
ISBN: 1-86941-612-0
- CLFNZ Notable Book 2005
- Shortlisted for NZ Post Children’s Book Awards 2005
- White Raven Book 2005
Written and illustrated by well-known children's writer and illustrator Gavin Bishop,
Taming the Sun contains four stories, including two well-known legends (
Maui And The Sun and Maui And The Big Fish) and two less well-known legends (Rona And The Moon and Kahu The Taniwha).
Aimed at children with reading ages 3-7 years, these myths are simply and yet elegantly written.
Gavin's characteristic sense of humour is evident in all of the stories;
and while each story is exciting and often a little bit scary, they are resolved beautifully.
Gavin allows the essence of the original myths to remain while also re-telling them for a new generation of children.
The illustrations are stunning - the different colour palette for each story and the strong mix of techniques create bold
and beautiful images that integrate with the words in a powerful and meaningful way.
Taming the Sun is an imaginative, fresh and much-needed addition to the picture book genre,
which takes traditional myths to a new level.
Created by one of New Zealand's most talented and passionate children's book writers and illustrators.
