The Lemonman

The Lemonman:

A Picnic, a Toad and Swampwater Road
by Natasha Ferrill
Illustrated by José Pou

 It all started when author Natasha Ferrill was three years old. She went to bed one evening and dreamed of a lemonman. The dream was the inspiration for The Lemonman Series. Many years later and many revisions The Lemonman: A Picnic, a Toad and Swampwater Road had emerged.

 A good picture book creates a world where a child is allowed to dream and escape, all in the safety of their bedroom. A great picture book creates a balance between reality and fantasy. The author transports you into a magical world of Applenook but also keeps you grounded here on earth. She has many realistic themes such as kindness, forgiveness and the consequences of lying and cheating. This story does a great job of straddling the line of fantasy and reality.

 The story begins with a short background written in rhyme of how Applenook and the Lemonman were created. Applenook is a magical place where fruits and vegetables live harmoniously and are best of friends. The main character is an adorable lemon named Lemonman. He invites his friend Professor Celery and Miss Strawberry to a picnic at Cherry Blossom Park. On his way there he encounters Timmy Pear and Mr. Toad. He is tricked and lied to and losses his picnic basket.

 Natasha Ferrill engages young readers with her sing song rhymes and endearing characters.The story subtly introduces the concept of months and time. The story also teaches young children the art of being kind and forgiving. Children and adults will both love this charming story.

 A picture book is a beautiful relationship between pictures and writing. In order to have a successful picture book you must have a great story accompanied by illustrations that make the story come alive. Jose Pou’s illustrations are beautiful and breathe life into Lemonman and his friends. The vibrant colors bounce off the page and transport the reader into the world of Applenook.

 The toughest child critic will enjoy this charming story. It is easy to read and flows very nicely from page to page. Your child will demand that you read this book over and over again. And you will be more than happy to oblige.



This book can be purchased at http://www.thelemonman.com (All copies purchased from the lemonman website will be personally signed!) or amazon.com Also please visit Natasha Ferrill’s facebook page,facebook lemonman.picture.books to get up-to-date information and to support a new author.

The Lemonman: A Picnic, a Toad and Swamp water Road is the first book in the Lemonman series. Coming soon "A Party, Some Rain and Wiggle Worm Lane"

• Author: Natasha Ferrill
• Illustrator: Jose Pou
• Price: $11.95
• Pages: 32
• Type of Book: Picture Book
• Copyright: 2011 by Natasha Ferrill
• ISBN: 978-0-9869464-0-0
• Publisher: Applenook Publishing