FLORAL AND THE JAZZERS: Follow Your Dreams!

 Somehow this author/illustrator and her work flew under my radar until now. FLORA AND THE JAZZERS is a delightful twist/mashup of a Cinderella-style story. I'm a sucker for picture book characters who are well-rendered animals, especially rodents. In Flora's case, this ferret figure is ideal for the role and era portrayed. Flora Ferret is the creation of Astrid Sheckels. A quick click on her name will reveal her website. Allow a bit of time to explore there, since I found I was utterly enthralled with the worlds and characters she has shared in her art and books. After poking there I was ashamed to admit that not only was she new to me, her books also were. They are award-winning and utterly appealing, but ... somehow I've missed them all this time.

Waxwing Books, 2025

So, I'm grateful to FLORA for introducing me to an appealing story and an incredibly talented storyteller and artist. Spotlighting this title and its remarkable creator for anyone else who may have missed her work is a privilege I'm happy to assume.

Here's a short and quick look at this latest from Sheckels. 

Flora is a hard-working scullery maid in a swanky hotel. It serves a classic clientele of varied animals whose demeanor and style choices are evocative of the jazz era. Music is Flora's life, especially jazz.  She sings and hums and lives the melodies throughout her work day. When her favorite band, the Jazzers,  is booked at her hotel, she longs to eavesdrop and manage to see a concert for the first time in her life. But her step-mother-like boss insists music its NOT for the likes of a lowly maid. Early on we learn that nothing can keep her from the music that fills her heart, and when a robin sings or a tune reaches her she hums or sings along. This irrepressible impulse leads to a surprising opportunity. The transformation is a delight, and the illustrations could absorb hours in noting the various animal characters and their dress, expressions, and postures. 

The idea of someone going about their daily life while humming, singing, and tuning into ambient music in the world reminded me of my mother, who was born with a song in her heart. Flora's story does not have her seeking a palace in which to perform, but only to attend a concert, to give herself over to the full experience of superb musicians. Just one time in her life.  But her nature and talent lead to a surprise that is life-changing and very satisfying.

I was utterly enthralled, and if ever a book had a happy ending, this one does. Take a look!