Magpie That is a fantastic blog. It combines thoughtful reviews, interviews, teacher’s tips, and many other little shiny snippets, delivered with an obvious passion for the subject. This blogger is very true to his magpie mascot in that he places all these treasures together for the picture book lover to pore over. The photography is incredible, placing front and centre the artists and illustrators, and showcasing their work beautifully. If you’re keen to know what’s new and exciting on the picture book scene, Magpie That is the best place to turn. My favourite aspect of what James does (and the one that costs me the most in book purchases) is his willingness to give a good sneak peek of the inside pages, too! Thank you, James! I think!
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Leilah Skelton, Bookseller, Doncaster
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Magpiethat.com is a top stop in my morning reads, as I know I will find inspiration guaranteed! As an illustrator and collector of children’s books magpiethat is a treasure trove of finding fresh new favorites and relevant works. There has never been a visit that did not produce a few new additions to my amazon wishlist or orders! I have been richly blessed to have been featured on magpiethat, and dream of one day having my own book reviewed by the brilliant James Syner! His knowledge of unique books and his admiration for the creators of them shines through with every review! The lovely flock of magpies that adorn the pages are not only incredibly clever but a testament to the amazing artists that share my adoration for magpiethat!
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Luke Flowers, illustrator represented by The Bright Group
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James Syner’s passion for picture books, both new and old, is evident on his Magpie That website. Not only does he review picture books with a keen interest that’s evident in his writing, he also presents well-informed articles that are especially inspiring to picture book makers like myself. I know that with every visit to Magpie that I’m sure to find something new and interesting, and I love it when I discover new and exciting books there as well as treasures from yesteryear.
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Steve Antony, picture book writer/illustrator (The Queen’s Hat, Hachette Book Group)
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A treasure trove, or rather a magpie’s nest, of beautiful and shiny books- I could spend hours on this blog!
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Jenni Desmond, picture book writer/illustrator (Red Cat Blue Cat, Blue Apple Books)
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I love this blog! It’s visually stunning, overflowing with inspirational and beautiful picture book gems. James’ background, in teaching and graphic design, gives him a unique insight and makes Magpie That a must read for all picture book lovers.
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Victoria Turnbull, picture book writer/illustrator (The Sea Tiger, Templar Publishing)
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Magpie That is a book-love treasure trove of inspiration.
Calef Brown, writer & illustrator of books for children (Dutch Sneakers & Flea Keepers, HMH Books for Young Readers)

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