Requiem for a Beast by Matt Ottley
This is one book that has been very difficult to categorize. I think it is certainly the best example of multimedia publication I have ever seen. Much of the book is in graphic novel format, but there are pages of narration, and even pages that are definitely picture storybook. At the back of the book is a CD of music to be listened to in conjunction with the story. And certainly the mature language use (colourful terminology abounds) will keep this book out of many libraries.
Then this week the CBC bravely includes it on the Picture Book of the Year shortlist. Certainly this list has had a long history of picture books for older children. And last year’s winner The Arrival was an astounding read for any age. However, I believe Requiem for a Beast is going to appeal to young adults and adults almost exclusively.
To summarise the plot, a young man is working on a station for the first time. On the last muster for the season the crew are searching for wild stock, especially a bull who is dangerous. At this level the story seems superficial. The extraordinary artwork and the intermingled story of an Aboriginal elder and a Minotaur add an incredible complexity to a story that could have been very very average.
I think the most amazing part of this creation is the fact that Matt Ottley did it all, composed the CD, painted the artwork as well as writing and designing the story. What an incredibly creative person Matt must be.
