The Incredible Adventure of Hugh Hound is a children’s animal picture book written by Geoff Payne and illustrated by Sarah Truman. Will Weasel was quietly at work in his home studio when rapping on his door broke into his concentration. When he opened the door, he was startled to find an exceedingly well-dressed hound, garbed in the queen’s naval uniform. The hound introduced himself as Hugh Hound and explained that he had traveled by boat to commission a portrait by Will Weasel, having heard of his skills at portraiture. As the two sat comfortably, drinking Will’s tea and eating honey cakes, Hugh shared the most amazing story: a story about dragons, hidden treasure and fearsome pirates.

The Incredible Adventure of Hugh Hound had me reliving my first reading of Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s The Rime of the Ancient Mariner and revisiting Daniel Defoe and Robert Louis Stevenson’s marvelous adventure novels. His verse has the power and internal music of the Rime, and his story sparks the imagination as those classic adventure tales so easily managed to do. Parents and caregivers are in for a treat when they bring this book out for storytime as it’s guaranteed to thrill everyone involved. It’s a pleasure to read aloud as well as listen to, and Sarah Truman’s artwork follows the storyline in magnificent fashion. Each panel is filled with inked details, jewel-like colors and a master’s use of wash, shading, and textures. Adults reading this book may also find they’re thinking of their first reading of Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy and other great fantasy offerings as they read aloud. What a marvelous introduction to the great classics, and it’s easily accessible and enjoyable for all ages. Suitable for young readers to try on their own as well as for storytime, this new classic adventure tale is most highly recommended.

If you're looking for a beautifully illustrated children's picture book, The Incredible Adventure of Hugh Hound by Geoff Payne is a must-have for your child's library. This story has everything from bonding, lost treasure, pirates, a dragon, goblins, and adventure. When Hugh Hound experienced a wonderful adventure that took him on a journey of overcoming pirates, capturing a ship along with lots of gold and presenting this gold to the Queen, he was so ecstatic with his success. Artist Will Weasel was known for his work so, to commemorate his success, Hugh Hound wanted a portrait. Will Weasel was so honored to grant such a request. This connection created a great bond between the two and the portrait was something that Hugh Hound treasured so much that he hung it above his mantle.

Did you know that there are various benefits to a children's picture book for a child from connecting and visualization to learning how to read? I loved and enjoyed this beautiful book because the story not only rhymed within each paragraph but the story was wonderfully written that your child will want to read it over and over again. The words on the page along with the illustrations told a tale not only of fun and adventure but royalty and honor. The portrait of Hugh Hound and his shamshir (sword) was so breathtaking that it will stay in my mind as well as your child's. Looking forward to more work from this author.