AUTHOR: Il Sung Na
ILLUSTRATOR: Il Sung Na
PUBLISHER: Alfred A. Knopf, 2017
IMPRINT: Borzoi Books
SNIPPET: It was Bird's first day in a new forest and he was looking for a friend. It wasn't long before he found someone! But Bird was too shy to say hello.
When he finally felt brave enough...
...it was TOO LATE! Bear already had a friend.
A simple and effectively-told story of a bird, a balloon and a bear with a satisfying ending and the subtle message that good things may come to those who wait, but yet take action when they receive the call. Bird's story is depicted in somewhat simple, soft and beautiful art which also lends to the appeal of this sweet story.
While some of the sentences might be considered a bit tell-y, it ends up working well and I wouldn't change a thing. We are brought straight to the heart of the matter without delay and the sparse text is enhanced with the emotion portrayed in the art.
This story gives hope for second chances, which are well worth the wait.
RATING: 5 out of 5 Peas
This was an intriguing book to read - and I think it has a couple of layers. Sure, there's a balloon, and bird would love a friend - but is a balloon the best kind of friend?
ReplyDeleteYes @Sue Heavenrich. Good point!
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