Mary, the Big, Brown, Hairy Spider

Lyn Lee
Kim Gamble

Omnibus (SOLO series)
Scholastic Australia 2004
50pp., pbk. 9.95
1862915334

She eats her husband. She observes, guards and rescues. She’s a hairy, creepy-crawlie who is a little more mysterious than you could imagine. This lonely spider tries to make friends with everyone, however hard it can be.

Author Lyn Lee has portrayed Mary as a sensitive but strong character. Her easy to read style of writing entertains readers of all ages. The clever use of descriptive language creates clear images in your mind.

Talented illustrator Kim Gamble’s use of the fade-out technique in all his black and white drawings, not only matches Lee’s text brilliantly but also adds to the overall atmosphere.

This well written book about a determined spider would have a charming effect over younger readers. We believe that this excellent publication deserves to be in the well- known Solo series.

Skilfully written, this short story is a great read! If you have the opportunity to get hold of it, we know you will enjoy it as much as we did.

Reviewed by 3/4V, Wollondilly Public School, Goulburn, NSW