I Need a Parrot Book Review

Written and illustrated by Chris McKimmie

Recommended for ages 5+ years

The main character in this picture book wants a parrot so much, he feels like he NEEDS it, and keeps trying to persuade the person we do not see in the story...a parent perhaps?

Chris McKimmie’s message in this story is to highlight the problem with caging pets, but in a fun way, and using simple text and bright illustrations. This is a topic that kids and parents can discuss and a good topic for classroom discussion.

The contrast between the birdcage on the front endpapers, and the double spread of the parrot flying free in the peaceful blue sky at the end of the story is quite striking. This double spread also contrasts against the bright sharp colours used throughout the book and the needing of the main character.

The main character grasps the message at the end of the book with a simple “Oh.” This is quite cute, as is the next idea that pops into his head.

The inspiration for this book actually came from an encounter with a doctor, whose son desperately wanted a parrot.

To create the illustrations Chris has used ink, gouache pencils, watercolour paints, collage, pastels, coloured pencils and acrylic paint.

Chris has written and illustrated 11 children’s books. He is also an artist, designer, musician and university lecturer, and a proud grandad.