A Storytelling of Ravens

A sloth of bears, a smack of jellyfish, a nuisance of cats -- these are some of the surprising and idiosyncratic names we have for groups of animals. Inspired by the evocative possibilities of collective nouns, also called "terms of venery," author Kyle Lukoff and illustrator Natalie Nelson have created a picture book full of clever wordplay and delightful illustrations. Each spread features a nugget of a story using a particular term, which is accompanied by a collage illustration that serves as the visual punch line.

But where did these unusual names come from? Many of them can be traced back to a book on hunting, hawking and heraldry, printed in 1486 -- the Book of St. Albans, which has been reproduced many times since.

A Storytelling of Ravens provides a unique opportunity to explore and rejoice in the oddities of the English language.

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Groundwood Books
Published: 05/01/2018
ISBN: 9781554989126
Pages: 32
Weight: 0.90lbs
Size: 11.10h x 8.80w x 0.40d

Review Citations: Kirkus Reviews 03/15/2018 pg. 107
School Library Journal 05/01/2018 pg. 69
Foreword 04/26/2018
Hornbook Guide to Children 07/01/2018 - Below Average, With Minor Flaw