The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper and illustrated by Carson Ellis (Candlewick Press 32 pages – Ages 4-8)
in Children's Non-religious Holiday Books
This legend or myth is most prevalent in the far north where the days become almost completely lost to the dark.
The joy they feel as the light begins to return is captured in the text and illustrations.
This is a good presentation of the ways peoples have dealt with their feelings as the days wax and wane with the passing of the seasons.
About the book: In this seasonal treasure, Newbery Medalist Susan Cooper’s beloved poem heralds the winter solstice, illuminated by Caldecott Honoree Carson Ellis’s strikingly resonant illustrations.
As the sun set on the shortest day of the year, early people would gather to prepare for the long night ahead. They built fires and lit candles. They played music, bringing their own light to the darkness, while wondering if the sun would ever rise again. Written for a theatrical production that has become a ritual in itself, Susan Cooper’s poem "The Shortest Day" captures the magic behind the returning of the light, the yearning for traditions that connect us with generations that have gone before — and the hope for peace that we carry into the future. Richly illustrated by Carson Ellis with a universality that spans the centuries, this beautiful book evokes the joy and community found in the ongoing mystery of life when we celebrate light, thankfulness, and festivity at a time of rebirth. Welcome Yule!
Snow Leopard: Ghost of the Mountains by Justin Anderson and illustrated by Patrick Benson (Candlewick Press 32 pages – Ages 5-8)
The Snow Leopard's story of life in the Himalayas is beautifully told with gentle respect for this large cat who has strength, agility, thick-warm fur, and cunning abilities that enable it to live at heights of 18,000' conserving its energy.
The salient facts tucked away as asides separate from the storyline are so interesting. It would be such a treat to be able to see (and touch, but impossible, of course) one of these fantastic creatures.
I highly recommend this book for libraries everywhere.
About the book: Look! A line of paw prints in the snow. Follow the tracks to see the rare and utterly majestic snow leopard and visit her secret world.
The people who live among the high peaks of the Himalayas tell stories of a mysterious animal called the gray ghost. To see one, you’d have to be very lucky indeed. Join a zoologist in the Himalayan mountains as he searches for the elusive creature. With her pale gold and silver-gray coat painted with black rosettes, she blends so well into the boulders, it’s no wonder she’s thought of as a ghost of the mountains. But the fortunate few who spot her are rewarded with a sight they will never forget. Written by an expert with firsthand experience, beautifully illustrated, and interwoven with fascinating facts, this vicarious look at a breathtaking animal includes an end note suggesting resources to explore.
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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Candlewick to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Giveaway copies are provided by and sent directly to the winners by the publisher or publicist.
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