#blogbookaday: Shelter
Summary: “As a big storm approaches, two strangers arrive in the forest. All the animal families, safe in their homes, are worried. They wonder, “What are they doing there? What do they want?” So, as the pair knocks at the door of one home after another asking for shelter, all the animals turn them away, leaving them to fend for themselves. But then an accident suddenly forces the fox family out into the snow and the wind, and the foxes find they must ask these outsiders for help. Will they find it in their hearts to give it?
Céline Claire’s heartwarming picture book story delivers a timeless and timely message about the importance of kindness and generosity. With simple and evocative language, it explores how even small gestures can make a big difference to the strangers or outsiders in a community. Artist Qin Leng uses a warm, soft palette in her ink and watercolor illustrations creating a charming and inviting visual narrative that is perfect for young children. This book provides a wonderful opportunity for discussions about being welcoming and helping others in need, including how children can put this into practice by reaching out to the “new kid” or the one who seems different. It also works well for character education lessons on kindness, caring and empathy.” (Taken from Goodreads)
Review: A storm is coming and all the neighbors are getting prepared, until they see two animals that need shelter from the weather. None of the neighbors are willing to invite them in, so they go on their way, creating their own shelter from the storm. Soon the fox family find themselves without a shelter as the weather has become too much for burrow. The newcomers gladly welcome them in their cramped quarters for the evening. This would make a wonderful discussion starter to talk about empathy.
Personal Reaction: I started reading this book and was expecting a sweet little story about getting ready for a storm and staying warm and cozy while it rages on outside. Instead, I found a story that brings to the forefront a discussion on kindness and empathy, a discussion on the “other” and how kids should and shouldn’t handle these situations. Pair this with Be Kind by Pat Zietlow Miller for concrete ways to show kindness – perfect for kids.
Title: Shelter
Author: Céline Claire
Illustrator: Qin Leng
Publisher: Kids Can Press
Publication Date: October 3, 2017
This is a new idea I’m trying on my blog this year that was inspired by @donalynbooks and @heisereads – to provide a brief review of a picture book every day of 2018. You’ll get a brief summary of the story, a review of the content, illustrations and theme, my personal reaction to the book and all the pertinent publication information! Enjoy!
