I had another book lined up for this week. But after watching the news with the unexpected heavy snow falls in the USA and hoping friends are keeping safe and warm, I thought this gorgeously illustrated one was more in keeping with the theme.
Written by: Davide Call
Illustrated by: Maurizio A C Quarella
Published by: Wilkins Fargo Pty 1st October 2013
Age: 4 – 7 years
Theme: knowing ones identity, seeking the future, inquisitive
Opening Lines: The Little Eskimo wanted to know two things: he wanted to know if he would be a great hunter when he grew up, and also what was on the other side of the Great Ice Lake.
Synopsis: The little Eskimo sets out on a quest to find the answers to his questions but none of the arctic animals can help him. Finally, a whale takes the brave little boy to an island in the middle of the lake to the one creature who knows all.
Why I like this: This is a beautiful story, though a little dark. It reminds me of the saying “curiosity killed the cat, satisfaction brought it back.” The little Eskimo boy is so determined to find answers to his questions. However things are not quite what we expected. Even I was surprised at the ending of this one. I loved Maurizio’s illustrations with the cute little Eskimo and such expression in his eyes. The scenery in blues gives that icy feel.
Resources/Findings: Here is some Teachers notes on the Wilkins farrago website. http://www.wilkinsfarago.com.au/PDFs/Eskimo_teachers_notes.pdf
And if you have snow, now’s a good time to go out and make a snowman or join in a some snow fun.
I’m always pleased to be able to bring you some more special books that have come my way and be able to share them with you and join other great writers over at Susanna’s Blog, where there are literally hundreds of book reviews to view. So pop over and visit the lovely author, Susanna Leonard Hill’s blog and find the tab for Perfect Picture Books. Her blog is full of resources links and activities associated with books reviewed by many authors.
Ahhhh! This one sounds really COOL! and intriguing! Thanks for sharing!
Ha, Your welcome rhythm.
Sounds like a cute book with a message. I moved to Spain to get away from the cold and snow!
Thank you Darlene. How is your tripping around going? Hope you are having a wonderful time.
Yes, with our Polar Vortex, it is a great choice this week. You left us in suspense with this story. Hope the little Eskimo didn’t become dinner.:)
Ha, no Pat, he did not become dinner. Hope you are keeping warm as the winter approaches for you over there.
Just came from the garden center here, where there are reindeer visiting – this would be the perfect book for me to read today! Beautiful cover. Hope I can get it. Titanicat just came in!
Oh goody, I hope you enjoy Titanicat. Yes the Christmas decorations are up everywhere now. Strange how the reindeer seem to be visiting many garden center’s, even down here… 🙂
Yes, I did enjoy it – really beautiful illustrations! Say hello to the deer down under for me!
Ooooh. Lovely looking book with an old-fashioned feel to the story. (Maybe that’s why it gets a little dark?) just pinned it to my “checki t out” board. Thanks!
mmm… possibly Joanne. Hope you enjoy it.
A boy, an arctic adventure, and a quest… what more could you want? Sounds like a perfect book to read on a snow day.
Yep! I agree. Just need the snow down here.. 😉