Always, Never, Always by Meg McKinlay and Leila Rudge

Title: Always, Never, Always

Author: Meg McKinlay and Leila Rudge

Genre: Poetry

Publisher: Walker Books Australia

Published: 4^th October 2023

Format: Hardcover

Pages: 32

Price: $25.99

Synopsis: A poetic and quirky one-of-a kind classic-in-the-making, that encourages readers to explore their world, from two award winning creators.

Always follow secret tracks –
the paths that wind and wend through cracks.
Never worry where they go.
When you get there, then you’ll know.

Meg McKinlay is a multi-award-winning author renowned for her effortless entwining of poetry and imagination. This new title is a lyrical, whimsical handbook for anyone needing a little quirky guidance for going boldly out into the world. Brought to life by Leila Rudge’s endearing and adventurous illustrations, this book has charm, wit and wisdom and is a gift to treasure.

~*~

Always, Never, Always is a gentle and inspiration book written in poetic form for readers aged two and over. Always, Never, Always has a repetitive refrain that goes with the rest of the poem as it moves through a young child making a series of discoveries on an adventure, reminding the child that they should always look for the possibilities in things and be open to wonders that they have not discovered yet. It shows readers to find the positive in things, and the wonder and joy, whilst trying to set aside negative feelings and attitudes, as well as promoting a sense of loyalty to those on the journey with you.

Meg McKinlay has created a poem that ebbs and flows, highlighting that what we expect from ourselves, and others might not always work out as we expect. It teaches children to be fair, and not to be selfish, and allows them to understand that everyone is different. That we all have needs and wants, and that we should try to make things fair for everyone whilst still having fun and a sense of adventure with our nose for curiosity. It is a book that is filled with adventure, but is also calming at the same time, something that can be read at any time. It is an inspiring book to read – one that takes the adult reader back to a time when they were discovering the world as a child, and that shows the child reader that the world is filled with beauty and wonder.

I felt a sense of calm when reading this book, as its gentle tone and rhythm felt like a kind of lullaby, a song that celebrates life and friendship. I loved reading this book, because it has something in it for everyone, and the colours dance off the page, with the illustrations enhancing the words beautifully. This book is a delight, with secret keys and locked doors, gardens to explore and friends to make. It centres joy, wonder and friendship in an accessible and calm way for all readers.