Happy Perfect Picture Book Friday, dear friends!
Before I share this heartfelt story with you, we have some books to give away.
Author Alayne Kay Christian offered a copy of her chapter book, SIENNA, THE COWGIRL FAIRY. And the winner is…
KEILA DAWSON
Author Ariel Bernstein offered a copy of her debut picture book, I HAVE A BALLOON. and the winner is…
DAMON DEAN
Author Penny Parker Klostermann offered a copy of A COOKED UP FAIRY TALE. And the winner is…
CAROLE GERBER
Author Nancy Churnin offered a copy of MANJHI MOVES A MOUNTAIN. And the winner is….
ALI EARLE PICHARDO
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL! AND HUGE THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO FOLLOWS MY BLOG. YOUR COMMENTS ARE MUCH APPRECIATED! I’LL BE IN TOUCH TO CONNECT THE WINNERS WITH THE AUTHORS.
AND NOW…OUR PERFECT PICTURE BOOK FRIDAY REVIEW!
GRANDMOTHER THORN
Written by Katey Howes
Illustrated by Rebecca Hahn
Published by Ripple Grove Press (2017)
Ages: 5-8
Themes: Friendship, acceptance
Synopsis:
From Amazon: Grandmother Thorn treasures her garden, where not a leaf, twig or pebble is allowed out of place. But when a persistent plant sprouts without her permission, Grandmother begins to unravel. “Her hair became as tangled as the vines on her fence. Her garden fell into disrepair. One morning, she did not rake the path.” A dear friend, the passage of seasons, and a gift only nature can offer help Grandmother Thorn discover that some things are beyond our control, and that sweetness can blossom in unexpected places.
Why I like this book:
- Heartfelt tale that reminds me of the old fables I loved as a child.
- Wonderful illustrations that create an atmosphere of mystery.
- Message of friendship and acceptance subtly woven throughout the story.
Related Activities:
Gardening with Kids
Photo courtesy: http://www.growingajeweledrose.com
There are so many indoor and outdoor gardening activities we can do with kids. Grab an old toy truck, fill with soil, and plant some seeds. Use empty eggshells as your ‘pot’ and store in the egg carton for stability. Whenever you eat a fruit that has a pit, plant it…who knows what beautiful greenery might flourish. Growing things with kids helps them learn about life, death, and responsibility.
For detailed instructions on many planting activities: http://www.growingajeweledrose.com/2013/03/outdoor-nature-gardening-activities.html
I’m excited for tomorrow’s Will Write for Cookies when a very special kidlit friend of mine and fellow Storm sister, GRANDMOTHER THORN’S author, Katey Howes, will stop by to chat with us. Please leave a comment to be entered in the giveaway of an autographed copy of her book! And remember that Amazon reviews are important and also much appreciated by the author!
For many more picture book reviews, hop over to Susanna Hill’s website this week.
VIVIAN KIRKFIELD - Writer for Children 
This book seems amazing. I can’t wait to read it. 🙂
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Ah yes, we can’t control everything. A little bit of wildness can be a good thing. I look forward to hearing more about this story. Love your gardening suggestions. 🙂
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I’ve been waiting for this one!
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I love that cover! What an important story for kids about acceptance and friendship. Look forward to the review tomorrow.
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I love the idea behind this book.
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I think this book is important to share with my daughter. Thank you for reviewing it. Often, it seems when the perfect PB review comes up, the timing is off. Your review falls perfectly. Also, I’m completely inspired by the super creative containers used for planting! I think my favorite is the yellow and rusty dump truck, or maybe it’s the painted animal containers. Thank you for this review.
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I’m looking forward to reading this one! Thanks, Vivian!
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I’ve been looking forward to seeing this book. It sounds intriguing and I love the cover. Thanks for sharing, Vivian. I will check it out!
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I love the activities related to gardening. I wasn’t able to put in a garden this year and miss it, especially when my neighbor’s garden is bursting with color and fresh tomatoes. I especially think the egg radishes are clever. I’ve seen this book and can’t wait to read it.
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I have this one on hold. I am really looking forward to reading it. Even more now, after your review. Thank you.
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Love those plant containers. I am so glad the illustrator didn’t shy from making a truly lined, older looking grandma.
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I love fables & gardening (I think I have a bit of Grandma Thorn’s desire for control & perfection in me!), and can’t wait to read this one. Congratulations on your debut, Katey!
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