Monday, March 3, 2025

A Gosling Steps Up by Wendy Greenley #50preciouswords entry

 I think most picture book writers are familiar with Vivian Kirkfield. If you're not, I'lll wait while you check out her website and blog.

For several years now, she's run a fun contest in March, to write a complete story (beginning, middle and end --not a concept piece) in fifty words or less. Yep. 50. Not a typo. 

Here's my entry this year. It came about as a result of me seeing a lone goose flying in the night sky, and then watching a gaggle of geese that gather in the nearby community college's fields. I hope you enjoy it! 


Gosling Steps Up by Wendy Greenley

(50 wds)

 

I listen.

Whistler and Honk share sentry duty, keeping us safe.

But Honk’s sick.

I watch.

Whistler’s head swivels.

His neck stretches.

Time passes—

Whistler yawns.

Honk’s beak is under his wing.

Others can’t leave eggs they’re incubating.

I’ve learned. 

I stretch.

Swivel.

Feel big.

Is it time?

I volunteer.

Adobe Stock photo - 

Canada Goose Lookout 04


I think you can find my entry on Vivian's blog by following this link. Note I say I think - not I'm sure, LOL. There are always hundreds of entries! 



Wednesday, January 22, 2025

A review of The Sky Is Not Blue by Joy Jones and Sawyer Cloud

Recently, we've had gloomy skies and bitter cold where I live. This upcoming book is a good reminder to enjoy ALL the days!


Author: Joy Jones

Illustrator: Sawyer Cloud (perfect name for this book!)

Publisher: Free Spirit Publishing, 2024 (the Free Spirit imprint acquired by Teachers Created Materials)

Themes: Creativity, Self-confidence, Colors

Opening Line(s):

     "Ask Robert to name his favorite color. 'All of them!' he'd shout."

What I like about this book: The intriguing title pulls you into the story and the text uses lovely imagery to describe the sky as it changes with the seasons and the weather. It's a great text for classrooms studying alliteration. My favorite line is :Then a flash of silver slid like a straw through the milkshake-thick mist." The main character is a good role model for how to disagree, and be polite. Teachers teach children, but this story illustrates how children teach adults as well. The message to take time to look more closely at the wonders of the world resonated with me. The illustrations capture a diverse classroom, main character and teacher. 

Activities:

  • You don't have to look farther than the back matter! Fun facts AND activities.
  • Think of someone you disagreed with. How could this story help you interact with them?
This review is based on a review copy provided by the publisher. No payment was made. The honest review is my own.

For more Perfect Picture Book Friday suggestions - visit Susanna Leonard Hill's blog!