TWO BY TWO
by John Winch & illustrated by John Winch
The endless flow of new versions of the Noah’s Ark story continues without ebb, but this entry follows a different course than most. This version is told simply, with few words, and never mentions Noah or the Ark or even God. The succinct text focuses on the animals themselves, who seek shelter from the great storm within the Ark, which gradually takes shape on the beach as the storm is approaching. Noah is shown peeking out of the Ark windows and in one full illustration with his wife, but the gathering storm and the gathering animals are the main focus. The rather abrupt conclusion shows the animals disembarking into a new world of “light and warmth and freedom” with no humans in sight. Winch’s oil paintings are highly detailed and creative in both perspective and composition, though sharp-eyed children are bound to notice that several animals on the cover and within aren’t paired up “two by two.” (author’s note) (Picture book/nonfiction. 3-6)