Counting the Stars by Gavin Bishop

Counting the Stars (Random House, 2009)

   Counting the Stars is the latest book of Maori Myths from talented author illustrator Gavin Bishop. His simple yet effective style is maintained in this book with terrific, if sometimes scary, drawings. I must admit the picture of Kae sleeping with two pieces of paua on his closed eyes was alarming.  However Bishop's bold, broad strokes depict Maori designs wonderfully. 
   Again some pages are quite dark and gloomy, particularly in the creation myth at the start, but for the most part the pictures are colourful and busy and had my kids talking.
   There are four myths in this book and my favourite was 'The Battle of the Birds'. After reading Skydancer by Witi Ihimaera, this story was like an old friend.

Riding the Waves: Four Maori Myths by Gavin Bishop

Ridning the Waves (Random House NZ, 2006)

Riding the Waves is the second in a series of picture story books for very young children by author illustrator Gavin Bishop.
   The four myths are portrayed by Bishop's clear but effective style. His figure drawings are well defined in black and ink washes fill out the background colour. The effect can be quite dark on some pages and gives pictures a muted feel. 'Maui finds his family' had this appearance. But on other stories with brighter spreads the colour is vibrant and fluid. 'Hatupatu and the Birdwoman' has this appeal.
   The stories are related simply with plenty of dialogue.
   My favourite was 'Maui and the Godess of Fire'. Even small details like Mahuika's fiery fingernails are depicted. The red ink stretching across the pages evokes the image of spreading fire perfectly.
  This book is a great one to read to your pikininis before bed.