Graphic Novel Review: Pablo and Splash by Sheena Dempsey

Pablo and Splash is a wonderfully funny, full-colour graphic novel that is guaranteed to delight young readers of 8+ as they adventure back in time with two accidental time-travellers. 

Even though she’s a penguin, Splash is not a fan of the Antarctica temperatures, and relies on a trusty scarf and hat for added warmth – even when she’s in a penguin huddle.  Whilst her best friend, Pablo, thinks their home is paradise, Splash longs for a luxury holiday … in the sun!  But how to get there?

After falling down an ice hole, the two friends are captured by Professor O’Brain and, whilst trying to escape her clutches, find themselves in a time-travel machine which transports them to a beach, but one which they’re sharing with … DINOSAURS!         Can these accidental explorers find their way home?  Or will they be stuck in the past, avoiding becoming the next meal for the locals?

This is such a fun read that brought plenty of giggles!  The language is wonderfully playful including some fantastic puns – especially the fishy ones!  The interactions between the two friends are just brilliant – filled with humour, warmth and oh so many problems to solve! 

I adored the friendship between Splash and Pablo who are both incredibly likeable penguins!  Pablo is more cautious, careful, and sensible whilst Splash is more curious, impetuous and daring with a sense of adventure.  But what a brilliant pair they make as they team up to solve a rather big problem! 

I loved the bright, vivid full-colour illustrations throughout which complement the energy, humour and warmth of the adventure.  And, I didn’t know that penguin beaks and flippers could be so expressive! 

The endmatter includes a guide for drawing Pablo and Splash and factual information.  I especially enjoyed Pablo and Splash’s completely and absolutely true facts, particularly those about huddling and the Southern Lights.

A krill-tastic, laugh-out-loud adventure that is sure to capture the imaginations of young readers who, I have no doubt, will have a whale of a time as they join Pablo and Splash on their first time-travelling adventure. 

Thank you to Bloomsbury for providing me with an early copy in exchange for my honest opinion.