Thursday, October 5, 2017

Picture Book Review: Shelter by Celine Claire

I received a free ecopy of this picture book from Netgalley and Kids Can Press in exchange for an honest review.

Title: Shelter
Author: Celine Claire
Illustrator: Qin Lang
Publisher: Kids Can Press
Publication Date: October 3, 2017
Length: 42 pages
Format: ebook
Source: Netgalley


Synopsis:
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? 

My Thoughts: 
The creatures of the forest know there is a big storm on its way so they gather wood for their fires, food for their larders, and they bundle up inside in the warmth and safety of their homes. When two strangers show up in the thick of the winter storm, none of the families are willing to share their homes and the bears end up stuck out in the snow. But then the roof of the fox den collapses from the heavy snow and they are all forced out into storm. Thankfully, the bears have created their own shelter and are willing to share. 

This was such a heartwarming little story with a great lesson on sharing and being compassionate to others; especially in times of need. You never know when it will be you that is in trouble and needs a helping hand. 

The watercolor illustrations are fantastic. The warm, muted colors really help build the scene of each comfy little den during a winter storm. I absolutely adore this illustrator's style. 

Monday, October 2, 2017

Picture Book Review: Rapunzel by Bethan Woollvin

I received a free ecopy of this book from Netgalley and Peachtree Publishers in exchange for an honest review. 

Title: Rapunzel
Author: Bethan Woollvin
Publisher: Peachtree Publishers
Publication Date: October 1, 2017
Length: 32 pages
Format: Kindle Edition
Source: Netgalley

Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis:
The wicked witch has Rapunzel trapped - but not for long!
Rapunzel lives all alone in a tall, dark tower. Under the threat of a witch's fearsome curse, the poor girl seems doomed to a life in captivity. But is Rapunzel frightened? Oh no, not she! 

My Thoughts:
This well-known story is given new life with Bethan Woollvin's wonderfully simple but playful illustrations. Woollvin's Repunzel is not satisfied with being locked in a tower all day so she climbs down her hair to explore, not heeding the witch's threat to curse her if she tries to leave. And when the witch does find out, well, she already has a plan for that, too. 

This brave Rapunzel will delight little girls with it's slightly skewed story and awesome ending. Want a story where the girl saves herself instead of waiting for a prince to come along? Bethan Woollvin's Rapunzel is perfect for anyone looking for empowered female characters for their daughter's shelves! 


Be sure to check out Bethan Woollvin's retelling of Little Red as well!