KIDS’ BOOK OF THE WEEK

UNDER MILK WOOD: AN ILLUSTRATED RETELLING

by Dylan Thomas and Cerys Matthews, illustrated by Kate Evans Published in hardback by W&N,

£20 (ebook £10.99). Available now ★★★✩✩

Cerys Matthews is a long-time fan of Dylan Thomas, having composed music for his poetry in the past. In her latest work, she’s adapted Thomas’s Under Milk Wood – a radio drama he first started writing when he was 17 – for an illustrated children’s book.

It takes the reader behind the scenes of the fictional seaside village of

Llaregubb

(adults should read the town’s name backwards for a giggle) - giving a glimpse of what life is like for a whole range of people.

Characters range from Organ Morgan sleeping on his organ to Farmer Watkins dancing on the hill, and are accompanied by Kate Evans’ captivating and slightly absurd illustrations.

It might be slightly confusing for younger children, but older ones will love the whimsical style and sparkling array of characters.

With Matthews’ lyrical adaptation, it’s perfect for bedtime reading.