How Robin Saved Springby Debbie Ouellet
illustrated by Nicoletta Ceccoli
The mixture of winter and spring in this enchanting story called for a place of honor in our book basket on the nature table. You see, we're not yet ready to let go of winter, but spring is so enticing, especially when the snow melts away (for now!) and the sun comes out and we run in and out of doors hatless, jacketless, and (for this barefoot mama, anyway) shoeless! We know that snow will inevitably fall again before winter is over, but until then, reading books such as this one makes the sun shine a little brighter.
Lady Winter and Sister Spring prepare to help the seasons change hands, but when the Lady decides she is not ready to relinquish her time, she puts her Sister to sleep and foils the rescue attempts of Bear, Skunk, Squirrel, Caterpillar, Ladybug, Snake and Maple Tree, River and Wind. Only Robin is able to break through, finally, and Sister Spring wakes just in time. But he has paid a price...This story has some clever explanations for different things; the spots on Ladybug, the sap that runs from Maple Tree, the snow-white band on Skunk's back. The combination of beautiful prose and pictures keeps the story from feeling frightening, as it could to a young child who is understanding that Lady Winter is angry with nature and the animals...
We first read a book illustrated by Nicoletta Ceccoli last year- an unusual story called The Girl in the Castle Inside the Museum. We were enchanted with those drawings as we are enchanted by these- the soft, pale colors and smooth lines tell the story in a whisper, evoking a warm, cozy feel even though Lady Winter herself brings a cold chill.
So, whether the sun is shining or hiding, whether you are shoeless or cloaked, whether the fireplace blazes or lies dormant...
Happy Reading!
7 fellow travelers shared:
This mama longs for barefoot days. With sick ones in the house and heavy snow two weekends in a row, I have spent nine days without stepping a toe out of doors! My heart needs a fresh breeze.
i adore children's literature, and sometimes read
them to myself now that my little ones are grown.
someday, i will have grandbabies to read to, and boy
will i be ready!!!
hanks for the book idea, I am going to order it at my library...
Elise,
This sounds like a very interesting book. I'm looking forward to checking it out.
I've posted a review today, as well. I hope you can stop by and take a peek!
http://wheremytreasureis.wordpress.com/2010/02/08/childrens-book-monday-the-world-of-little-house/
~ Anna
Just wanted to say what a blessing it is that I have stumbled upon your blog! I l-o-v-e children's books and now will greatly look forward to Mondays!
Thank you so much!
Still reading and recommending good books I see! Just stopped by to say hello and see how you're doing. The children are growing so--but then that's what children do, isn't it? Blessings to all!
i couldn't comment on the dancing post,
but wanted to tell you how adorable those
two are!
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