The Best Dad in the World by Pat Chapman, and illustrated by Cat Chapman is a quality, if formulaic book celebrating kiwi Dads.
An easy choice for father’s days, birthday’s and Christmas’s for dads everywhere The Best Dad in the World includes many generic dad traits and Cat Chapman’s illustrations are careful to include most ‘kiwi’ dads – well Pakeha, Maori and Pacific Island dads that is.
This is a solid book, following a well-worn path. And while it works fine, and the illustrations are bright and lively, I can’t help feeling it’s a missed opportunity – what if Dad’s were radically different to the stereotypes we’re regularly encouraged to see as normal dad behaviour?
Nevertheless, I’m sure The Best Dad in the World will turn up in many father’s hands this father’s day and will encourage kids from kids eager to celebrate their dads.
REVIEWER: Heidi North-Bailey
TITLE: The Best Dad in the World
AUTHOR(S): Pat Chapman
ILLUSTRATOR: Cat Chapman
PUBLISHER: Upstart Press
RRP: $19.99