Peter Sis is one of the most extraordinary and talented author–illustrators working today. Born in Czechoslovakia and now residing in the US, Sis is an artist with a penchant for incredible detail who writes from real life. His stunning Caldecott Honor book, Tibet Through the Red Box, is the story of his father’s journey to Tibet. Sis has also created picture book biographies of Charles Darwin, Galileo and Columbus. He now turns his attention to the life of author and pilot, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

There are three levels of text that invite exploration. The main narrative is a bare bones biography of Saint-Exupéry’s life, from his birth in 1900 during the early days of aviation history to his mysterious death while flying 44 years later. In between, the story traverses his involvement in the beginnings of air mail, two world wars and the writing of many books.

The second, italicised narrative provides more detail to the story, and embedded within the illustrations themselves are many fascinating tidbits. Just when you think the pages might become too busy, you’ll turn the page to an exquisite double-page illustration.

Suitable for readers aged from 5 years right through to adults, this is a truly marvellous book. Those interested in biography and the history of flight will be particularly intrigued. Peter Sis admirers, old and new, will be thrilled that he has captured the essence of such a fascinating adventurer in his inimitable style.

Angela Crocombe is from Readings Carlton.