The Day the Big Black Bull Got MAD is a fun, fast-paced children’s book that tells the amusing story of a normally calm bull who unexpectedly goes on a rampage, creating mayhem on the farm and at the nearby campground.
What makes this read even more enjoyable is that it’s based on a real-life event and is written by Cable Bay farmer Barbara Stuart and illustrated by Rick Edmonds, an artist from Havelock.
Barbara and Rick have been friends for 37 years and The Day the Big Black Bull Got MAD is their first book project together.
Rick, known for his airbrush and acrylic techniques, says he faced the challenge of creating 20 illustrations, which would have meant almost two years of work, so to make the project more practical, he switched to watercolours. This allowed him to complete the entire book, including design and research, in less than four months.
“The change of medium and working much freer suited the content of the story,” Rick sayss.
Author Barbara Stuart, a dry stock farmer at Cable Bay Farm for more than 50 years, where the farm has been home to the Stuart family for five generations, says: “This was such a good real-life tale. Years ago, I sold a story to national radio, so thought I’d give it another try and I roped our friend and well-known Marlborough artist to help. It’s been a fun exercise while I wait for my hip replacement.”
Local early childhood educator Virginia Preston-Hunter shared her thoughts on the book. “This is a beautiful children’s book which appeals to both children and adults, beautifully told and illustrated. Highly recommended as a keepsake. It’s really special to have local stories,” she said.
With colourful illustrations and a fun, engaging plot, it’s a delightful read! Copies can be purchased at the Havelock Gallery or by contacting Barbara directly at barbara@cablebay farm.co.nz
