Brigitte Weninger

Debbie and his sister head to their grandparents’ house. While there they hear the story of their grandparents getting lost in the snow, and how they stayed where they were and made themselves safe and waited for someone to find them. Turns out that happens to Davey on their way home. After they slide down the big hill, they can no longer find the path home because of the snow. Davey makes sure that he and his sister are safe and wait for mom and dad to appear. This book is basically a lesson in survival on a cold day. It does work, but it is very long winded. The best thing about this book is the illustrations. The story could’ve been cut in half and still have been successful.… (mais)

Two little bunnies lose their way coming home from the grandparents but work together to have a good time and stay safe until found by the rest of their family. It's a cheery story and is perfect for rereading many times.
Thanks to David Henry Wilson for translation from the German.
The illustrations by Eve Tharlet are thoughtful, delightful, imaginative, and colorful.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from NorthSouth Books via NetGalley. Thank you!… (mais)

Previously this month I read A Friend in Winter by Feridun Oral. I liked his illustrations so much that I want to continue to read his works.

This is a beautiful story of love and loss. Aunt Fanny is growing old and she cannot take care of herself. Mama bunny loves Aunt Fanny who loved her as a mother when she was young. Now, it is time for Aunt Fanny to be loved and taken care of just as she loved others.

Moving Aunt Fanny into the abode of a family of five means a lot of changes need to occur. Tony needs to move into the room with his sisters. Soon the three children grow to love Aunt Fanny and appreciate how much she finds joy in everything. Her box of clothes, and fancy dishes fits in a small drawer. The children enjoy listening to Aunt Fanny describe the items in the box and learning about what makes her happy.

At night, the children go outside with Aunt Fanny and watch the stars as she tells them one day she will fly there. Aunt Fanny brings joy and happiness to all. Soon the family adjusts and loves having her with them.

Then, the children wonder why Aunt Fanny is losing weight and why she sleeps so much. Soon the day came when she could not get out of bed. In honor of all she taught them, the children went outside to watch the stars every night.

When Aunt Fanny dies, all family members cry, and the mama bunny tells all that they can cry as hard and as long as needed.

This is a wonderful story of love, acceptance, death and courage. Beautifully told, this is a testimony to helping someone who deserves love in return for the help that was previously given.

Similar to so many children's illustrated books, the story transcends age. This is not simply a children's story. It is indeed a reminder that love continues and memories live on.

Four Stars… (mais)