#BOOKREVIEW #5
CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW AS A WRITER AND A READER

Title: BRUNO the Carpenter
Author: Lars Klinting
Illustrator: Lars Klinting
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Target Reader: Children aged 7-10 years old

From being a carpenter to a teacher to a self-taught illustrator, Lars Klinting – an award-winning author and illustrator – takes readers into the world of self-sufficiency and independence.

When I picked up his book BRUNO the Carpenter, I saw it as an opportunity to teach Grade 1 children about curved and straight lines through the eyes of a beaver. As a teacher, my mind leans towards finding creative ways to make learning fun and receptive.

I found that the author was Swedish, which increased my curiosity for two reasons: a) I am an author, and b) I live in Sweden. The book brought an opportunity to connect with a fellow Swedish writer – only to find that Lars passed away years ago, although his books remain timeless.

Swedes, from a young age, are taught how to be independent and to singlehandedly problem solve. This doesn’t mean they can’t work in a team, just that asking for help wouldn’t cross their mind first. However, this also made Swedes very handy, look at IKEA.

The same philosophy of being handy is reflected in Lars Klinting’s book – Bruno the Carpenter.

In the story, Bruno finds his workshop messy and decides to build something to organise his tools. He finds a plan in his grandfather’s workshop, studies it carefully to avoid any mistakes (I wonder if not making mistakes is part of Swedish culture or if Lars was a perfectionist) and gets on to his job.

Lars might have made things simple and easy for his readers to build a toolbox but his journey was not smooth. He wanted to become a teacher of arts and crafts, but couldn’t pass the entry exam. He is a self-taught award winning author and illustrator. On reading his books, you will understand within a few minutes that Lars had a strong grasp on illustration and craftsmanship.

After reading the story, my belief in the saying ‘teaching is the best way to learn’ strengthened. Through this book, I can make a box for the tools scattered in my storeroom. And can guide my students to build something like that to manage their toys.

The readers will find this book simple yet relevant in many aspects. It can be a medium for rich discussions with children of various age groups. The forum can be opened on topics like

– the significance of planning,
– how clear thinking leads to better execution,
– the value of simple designs with high functionality.

When you study Lars’s work, you will find that his illustrations and stories are inspired by animals and birds. The love for nature, although not limited to Swedes, is an integral part of the Swedish lifestyle. From a young age, children are encouraged to spend time outdoors, even in the harsh winter, as a way of adapting to the climate and connecting with nature.

Finally, Bruno the Carpenter will find a place on every shelf, and Bruno, the beaver will make space in every heart. And, Lars, the writer will keep inspiring people to follow their dreams.

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