The Dream Keeper by Anna Walker

The Dream Keeper is a strikingly whimsical picture book that will surprise readers with its deep meaning, incredible detail and glorious images. A young child is afraid of the dark and has trouble settling into sleep. Meanwhile a wondrous turtle travels to places carrying a small jar of illuminated dreams to those who need them.  The turtle’s journey to give hope to the child afraid of shadows and darkness is not always smooth sailing but the destination is reached in the end. It is only then that the child and her toys drift gently towards slumber.

From the stunning cover and outstanding endpapers this is a book to be treasured. With minimal text, it is the compelling images in softly muted tones that tell this story of fear, courage and hope. Full page illustrations paired with panels, all rich in texture and movement, each highly detailed drawing revealing a thoughtful and imaginative narrative one section at a time. 

Anna Walker has created an exceptional picture book. It is distinctive in its presentation showcasing the skills of a gifted author/illustrator as well as in the complex layers of the story behind the words and images, and how they are perceived and understood by each reader.  Highly recommended.

Themes: Young children, Dreams, Overcoming Fear, Courage, Self-confidence, Hope, Imagination.

Kathryn Beilby