Tag: Sophie Loosveldt

A Tale of Wonderful Whiffs by Sophie Loosveldt, Isabella Croker (Illustrator) PDF, 39 pg. Sunshine Stories, 2020 Read: May 12, 2021

What’s A Tale of Wonderful Whiffs About?

Ahh, pugs. Over at SheldonComics.com, you’ll see them described as “God’s Little Wierdos.” But in A Tale of Wonderful Whiffs, they’re some of the Universe’s “Secret Agents” here to spread love (through a varieety of means). Both ideas work, really, if you’ve ever spent time around them.

In particular, this book is looking at Pugini and her person, Sophie. There’s not really a narrative arc here, it’s a series of vignettes looking at the things that Pugini and Sophia do as these Secret Agents to brighten the lives of those they come into contact with and spread love.

It could be argued that Pugini’s method of spreading her message of love—via “tuneful toots” created from her “happy belly” which is “only sometimes SUPER smelly”—is pretty crass and not worthy of some of the elevated subject manner. But I can’t imagine anyone’s going to bother—particularly because it’s hilarious to a kid who’s still having picture books read to them.

The Illustrations

Croker provides some dynamic art. It’s very distinctive and attractive (although I thought the colors seems a little muted). I thought she nailed the art for Pugini—who is fairly cartoonish—especially the art revolving around Pugigini and hunting for snacks. It’s cute stuff that’s going to appeal to the target audience, I can assure you.

The, um, odor cloud depicting one of Pugini’s “fabulous farts” on one page is a great touch.

Okay, Sure, Maybe I’m Biased

A few years ago we adopted a senior pug/beagle mix, and I could see a little/lot of her in Pugini—her “squidgy face”, the “snorts and toots,” and the “hungry little monster nibbling on absolutely everything.” So, I’m an easy mark for this book—then again, how often do I have something less-than-complimentary to say about a Dog Book?

So, what did I think about A Tale of Wonderful Whiffs?

Sure, I’m not that wowed by the spiritual message of the book, but how many kids are going to grab on to it when they’re at the picture book stage anyway?

It’s a little saccharine-y, a little heavy-handed (but how many picture books are noted for their subtlety?). But ultimately it’s a cute book, with a nice premise, and some distinctive art. I’m not sure what else I have to say at this point, it’s a winner.

Get your hands on it had after a little fun with one of the goofiest critters around.

My thanks to Love Books Group for the invitation to participate in this tour and the materials (including the book) they provided.

Today I’m pleased to welcome the Book tour for the children’s book, A Tale of Wonderful Whiffs by Sophie Loosveldt and illustrated by Isabella Croker. After this post, I’ll be giving my take on the book here in a little bit. But let’s start by learning a bit about the book.

Book Details:

Book Title: A Tale of Wonderful Whiffs by Sophie Loosveldt, Isabella Croker (Illustrator)
Publisher: Sunshine stories
Format: Hardcover
Length: 39 pages

Book Blurb:

Pugini
Pug on a mission

This is the story of little Sophie and Pugini.

Everyday adventures of whiffs and wonders.

Together they explore the mystery and beauty of the natural world.

There is more to life than meets the eye. With a heart full of hope and a furry friend overflowing with love little Sophie ventures on a bright journey into the magic of every new day.

We are surrounded by Secret Agents helping us understand that love is all and we are all part of it. Never alone, but all one.

I am a control freak by nature, which suits me very well as an air traffic controller at Gatwick. I would have never classified myself as creative. Having moved from Belgium to London, opening my horizons, I now realise we all are; naturally inventive, expressive and imaginative. All children are born with this creative seed waiting to sprout. It took a long time for my seed to crack and for me to bloom into myself.

It is important to allow yourself to dream and have trust in the world. As a late bloomer I have a strong desire to empower all children, so they can grow and learn to express themselves freely. Our inner child never forgets about the magic of our world. It is the key to connect to the present moment and to not get stuck inside our heads.

Purchase Link:

https://pugini.com/shop/

My thanks to Love Books Group for the invitation to participate in this tour and the materials (including the book) they provided.