Written by Angela McAllister, Illustrated by Grahame Baker-Smith
This is a charming tale about Tom, a young boy who loves winter and wants it to stay forever. His Nana isn’t doing as well in the winter, though. Tom meets a child who loves to play winter games with him. Each day they play together Tom has fun. But each winter day takes a toll on his grandma. Tom makes sacrifices to keep Nana warm, but they run out of food and heat. Plants haven’t started growing since Winter has stayed so long. Tom finally wishes Spring would come because he’s cold and hungry too. His friend reveals that he is Winter’s Child, and that by his staying to play with Tom so long that Spring wasn’t able to arrive. He says it is time for him to go with his father – Winter. When Winter’s Child leaves, Spring arrives and plants start to grow again.
This tale seems like a folk tale that is just being retold. Something seems familiar. Maybe it’s just the passage of all my winters, but this is a story to explain why nature’s changes need to be allowed to occur. There are sacrifices and burdens when nature’s flow is interrupted.
The illustrations are beautiful and are very regal. Both the author and illustrator live in England, and the reader will notice a more formal style in both the writing and illustrations. The backgrounds are gorgeous. The figures of Tom and Winter’s Child seem almost porcelain. Winter’s horses seem magical.
My second-grade students were spellbound as I read this story to them.
Review by Cheryl Baker, Teacher, Mill Creek Elementary
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades K-3
When Tom meets an unexpected friend, he wishes winter will never end. But a long winter can mean hardships and both boys realize that it is time for spring. My favorite part of this book is the intricate details in the illustrations. The snowflakes are like lace upon the page. Though this book is a few years old, it is worth checking out. The story is a wonderful addition to any library.
Review by Teresa Edmunds, Westbrook Elementary Media Center
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades K-6
Winter’s Child
Written by Angela McAllister, Illustrated by Grahame Baker-Smith
Templar Books, an imprint of Candlewick Press
40 pages
Release Date: November 10, 2015
Just looking at the cover interest me. Thanks for the great review. I can’t wait to read it.