Finlay MacDonald

I could not find fault with this fabulously produced hardcover book on one of New Zealand's favourite writers and illustrators, a true national treasure.

Well-known journalist, editor, publisher and broadcaster Finlay Macdonald’s enthusiasm for literature and for the characters created by Lynley Dodd shine through this very readable work.

The early chapters focus on Hairy Maclary from his creation in1983 and journey to an iconic character of children’s literature. Macdonald soon turns to show more Dodd’s childhood in the Kaingaroa Forest, her family background, schooling in Tauranga, Elam School of Fine Art where she learnt sculpture, her job as a teacher, marriage, motherhood and then illustrating for the Correspondence School.

Dodd has created an impressive body of top quality work since her first collaboration with her husband’s cousin, Eve Sutton, illustrating My Cat Likes to Hide in Boxes in 1973. Her work is recognised as being both highly complex and simple in its execution.

A rare glimpse into the process from original sketches through to a finished, printed book is given as well as how very focused the creator is on the task at hand. Never-before-seen sketches and cartoons, character roughs and picture-book drafts bring greater depth to Dodd’s much loved books. A chapter on the key relationship with Ann Mallinson and Mallinson Rendel rounds out the story.

Lavishly illustrated with colour plates and workshop excerpts, this book is pure delight and a fantastic insight into the sometimes reticent Dodd. Read avidly from cover to cover I gained a greater appreciation of the work involved in producing a quality children’s picture book. Also included is a helpful contents page, list of complete works, awards, references and acknowledgements and index. A fitting tribute. show less

Synopsis: A book about one of New Zealand's most reputable children's books authors, Lynley Dodd, who created Hairy Maclary. Not a household in New Zealand has not heard of the hairy dog who goes on adventures in each book, and returns home safe and sound.

We learn about Lynley's childhood and younger years in the first few chapters. The middle part of the book goes into detail about how Hairy Maclary came about and rose to its success. Subtleties about Hairy Maclary are brought to light, show more such as the form it is written in, and how each dog is illustrated to look like its name. The final few chapters discuss Lynley's later years how Hairy Maclary has not only changed the lives of millions around the world, but hers also.

My Opinion: A very well-written biography about Lynley Dodd. I read it in a day! As a New Zealander who grew up with the books, the references in the book were easy to relate to.

Highly recommended to anyone who is familiar with the hairy dog. show less

An interesting account of Lynley's life accompanied by generous illustrations showing her art in various stages of completion.