Varmints Paperback – Import

I love reading to my kids, but I don't consider myself a children's book afficianado, and I rarely give them any attention. That said, when I caught "Varmints" out of the corner of my eye at my local bookshop I was immediately captivated, and after only a few pages it was eminently clear that it was among the most beautiful books, children's or otherwise, I have ever come accross."Varmints" is lovingly, elegantly illustrated in a very adult style that is still eminently approachable for children. Moreover, the story of love of nature, not a demagogic, militant environmentalism, but rather about making space for natural wonder, is reminiscent of "The Lorax" and will touch a chord with anyone who has every stopped to listen to the bees buzz and the wind blow.Jake Mohlman

This book is so creatively done and so unusual that I almost don't know what to say. There are these lovely translucent overlays and complicated images and a sweet, sweet story and beautiful artwork - this is totally amazing. This is exactly what illustrated books are for, surprise and compelling images and overwhelming beauty. What a treat to find this.

Got this book after being intrigued with the animated version I bought on iTunes. A nature nourishing rodent keeps the faith (keeps a plant alive) as civilization totally pollutes the earth. There is a "righteous will be swept up" element that personally bothers me, however.

Stunning book. I love kids books that touch me and make me think, and this one stayed with me for days, weeks afterwards. Its a book I'd like to buy.

This was a very wonderful book that my five year old loves for me to read but I believe it is intended for older children. I look forward to seeing her grow into it and seeing the different things she takes from it as she grows up. The artwork is great and the concept is very good. It is a good addition to any childs library. I highly reccomend not only this Helen Ward book but also The Tin Forest.

This is a wonderful book with a powerful story line and incredible illustrations.

The book strikes me as little more than a glorified storyboard for the movie, but that doesn't diminish its beauty or its value as a picture book. The innocent and childlike appearance of the main character seen on the cover makes it seem like a children's book, which it really isn't. A child would probably enjoy the artwork, but the concepts presented might be a little too advanced for the very young.Instead, it seems to work better as a work of art aimed at an older or adult audience. It presents scenes of beauty and innocence nearly annihilated by the crass and mindless expansion of industrialized society, followed by a resurgence of that nearly-lost beauty. The wording is minimal, leaving the artwork to present the real weight of the story. That's why I say it's probably better suited for older minds.I like it, and I think there may be a lot of people who would like it that haven't yet seen this book or the movie. If you enjoy the natural world and maybe sometimes resent the mindlessness of city life, then I'd bet you would enjoy this book.

The writing in this book is so sparse and so simple but so wonderful, there is a certain point where I get chills while reading it. It's a great story about how there is really nothing mankind could do to stop the world from coming full circle in whatever way necessary to complete it's cycle. The illustrations are downright amazing.It's a children's book that's not really for children. I've bought this repeatedly for myself and for friends. It makes a great birthday gift.

I purchased this, as I saw the movie short by the same name and wanted to see the original book. I am not disappointed. The animated movie short that has taken this book to a whole other level.

Es un álbum ilustrado curioso. El personaje muy expresivo y de una artista destacable. Se hace corto y uno querría que se centraran más imágenes en la criaturita tan bien personificada.

"There was once only the sound of bees and the wind in the wiry grass, the low murmuring of moles in the cool dark earth"This is a beautiful book with beautiful concepts about the state of the world and our ideas about ignoring the consequences of our actions. I first came across this as a short film (25 minutes) which can be bought on iTunes. It is similar in artwork but the story is much more detailed and has more depth to the meaningsOther buyers have mentioned this graphic book is suitable for both children and adults though I think adults may enjoy it more and can better understand its concepts. It is quite dark as many of the later images feature dark colours and perhaps frightening images.I would definitely recommend buying the hardcover edition as it is just something that you would want to enjoy again and again without worrying too much about damage.Overall I just find that this product is unlike any other kinds of graphic novels or children's picture books, and is certainly a fantastic item to own, it takes pride of place on my bookshelf.

Bought this book as a trainee teacher to read and analyse with my class! It’s such a cute book

I adore this book, and the animated film that goes along with it. I use it often when I supply teach as it can be used in a number of ways for all ages! I must also say that the pages are beautifully illustrated. Artistic pages, poetic text and a lovely story make this a great book!