Simon the Swan: A Sequel to the Lord of the Rushie River

by Cicely Mary Barker

In an effort to make his father proud, a young swan embarks on a dangerous quest in the wide world

Genres: Childrens

52 pages, Hardcover

First published September 15, 1988

About the author

Cicely Mary Barker was the illustrator who created the famous Flower Fairies; those ethereal smiling children with butterfly wings. As a child she was influenced by the works of the illustrator Kate Greenaway, whom she assiduously copied in her formative years. Her principal influence, however, was the artwork of the Pre-Raphaelites.

Reviews

[Natasha M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

In some ways, I wish there were more illustrations of the swans! Then again I don't think I own (nor have I ever read) the Lord of the Rushie River so perhaps that's where all my swans were to begin with.

My Dad (or I or both) had purchased this for it's artwork rather than it's story so this was the first time I've ever read it all the way through. It's a charming, meandering little tale about a swan who decides to prove himself in the world beyond the river he knows and naturally runs into some trouble. With the help of his new human pal however, he's able to progress (largely off stage). The story then seems to shift focus onto said human friend, Roger as his own merry little adventure and new friendships. All in all it's a very sweet little tale. I will always recommend the artist!

[Josh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sequel to The Lord of Rushie River. It tells of one of John Swan's cygnets and afriend he makes on his travels, Roger. The story bounces a bit between them, with a healthy dose of Susan, from the prior book.

More story here and what felt to me like fewer illustrations.

A tidy little tale.

[Alison Nickells · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favourite book as a child was Lord. Of the Rushie River and Simon the Swan is a delightful successor. As always the illustrations are stunning