Discover the poignant beauty of childhood amidst the turmoil of war with 'I Saw A Beautiful Woodpecker' by Michal Skibinski. This exquisitely illustrated hardback journal captures the innocence of an eight-year-old boy's life in Warsaw during the summer of 1939. Measuring 140 x 200 mm, this 128-page treasure chronicles Michal's daily observations through the simple task assigned by his teacher: to write one sentence each day in his journal. The early entries are light-hearted, capturing moments like splashing in a stream or playing with a caterpillar. However, as summer unfolds, the war casts a shadow over his quaint experiences, with entries that reflect the anxiety and devastation creeping into his world. This illustrated diary not only preserves the essence of a child's perspective but serves as a haunting reminder of history's impact on innocence. Published by Prestel Publishing on 05-10-2021, this brand new hardback edition is a must-have for anyone interested in children's literature, war history, or beautifully crafted art books. Plus, enjoy peace of mind with our combined shipping options for your convenience. As a NZ owned business based in Auckland, we stock this product locally, ensuring no unexpected import charges, custom duties, or taxes. Get your copy today and immerse yourself in this extraordinary narrative.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 140 x 200 mm
Pages: 128
Bind: hardback
Author: Michal Skibinski Publisher: Prestel Publishing
Publication Date: 05-10-2021

It is the summer of 1939 in Warsaw, Poland and Michal is an eight- year-old boy just finishing his school year. In order to improve his handwriting, Michal's teacher gives him a simple assignment: keep a journal, writing one sentence a day. Eighty years later, Michal's diary has been gorgeously illustrated with beautifully atmospheric paintings. Eloquent in its simplicity, the journal is a remarkable artefact that captures the innocence of childhood and the trauma of war. The journal starts out with a typical boy's observations: "July 15: I went to a stream with my brother and teacher." "July 23: I found a caterpillar." However over the course of weeks, menacing details emerge. "July 27: A plane was circling over Anin." "September 1: The war has begun." "September 3: I hid from planes." "September 14: Warsaw is bravely defending itself." These haunting entries are interspersed with visits from relatives, a soccer game, a trip to a park, an ice cream cone. Photographs of pages from Michal's diary enhance the poignancy of this simple record-an ordinary holiday interrupted by war; a life changed forever by an extraordinary moment in history.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.