MARY POPPINS written by P. L. Travers and illustrated by Júlia Sardà is an engaging format of this popular 1934 children’s classic. There are over 30 stylized illustrations in the 236 pages of this novel. Readers will be visually attracted to the characters, their predicaments and their adventures. There is a peek hole cut out on the front cover that allows the reader to get a first glimpse of the beloved flying heroine with umbrella and carpetbag in hand.
As soon as Mary Poppins, riding in on the East wind, lands at Number 17 Cherry- Tree Lane nothing is the same for the Banks children, especially Jane and Michael. They must get on board with their new nanny’s “spit spot” no-nonsense rules of behavior as well as her zest for unbelievable adventures.
First, they attend a tea party ten feet off the ground with the help of a little laughing gas. The illustration is full of wonderful details as the children giggle and roll toward the ceiling. Hats and pigtails go flying but not one drop of tea is spilled. Then, on Tuesday when Michael is having a very bad day there is a memorable whirlwind trip around the world with their flying nanny aided by a magic compass. This illustration shows very uneasy children trying to stay close to Mary Poppin’s skirts as they fly North at breakneck speed. Their facial expressions are perfect.
Mary Poppins written by P.L.Travers and illustrated by Júlia Sardà is attractively-designed for readers 10-12 years of age ( Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2018).
Questions for the illustrated novel Mary Poppins
The second chapter of this novel entitled “Bad Tuesday” gives an account of Michael’s very bad day. Mary Poppins tells him he got up on the wrong side of the bed! How does he act during this day? Check out the illustration of his temper tantrum. Make a list of the things he says and does that clearly show he is mad at the world. Have you ever experienced a day where you were mad at everything and everyone? Write a short description of your very bad day. Don’t forget to include what you did, what you said and how you felt.
If magic could really happen which of the following adventures would you like to experience: a tea party on the ceiling, a night visit to the zoo when all the animals talk or a whirlwind tour of the world? Be sure to study the illustrations of these adventures as well as the written descriptions. Draw a picture of yourself on one of these trips.
Reread Chapter One and delight in all the items Mary Poppins takes out of her what seems to be an empty carpet bag! The children are amazed to see her pull out nightgowns, bathing caps, soap, boots, blankets, a set of dominoes, toothbrush, a postcard album, and a folding bedstead! What would you take if you were going on a long trip? Make a list!