The Little Piece of Red Wool
Written by: Anne-Gaelle Balpe
Illustrated by: Eve Tharlet
Published by: Minedition 2014 Michael Neugebauer Publishing Ltd
Ages: 3 – 6 years
Theme: sharing, helping others, flow-on
Opening Lines: Oli had decided to go for a walk even though the wind was blowing strongly. He was holding a bit of wool. It was a small piece of red wool, probably a stray bit of doll’s hair.
Synopsis: from back of the book… It was only a small piece of red wool. But thanks to Oli, a bird could finish making its nest, an ant managed to get home and three little hedgehog children did not go hungry.
Why I like this: This is a very cute book. The simple message of sharing what he has to help others gives the story heart and is also reflected in cute expressions in the pixie-like illustrations. It seems he came by the red wool by accident and when he saw how it could help someone else he was happy to part with it, so too with the feathers and seeds, and then only to finally end up with the piece of red wool again. I love the twist at the end when he lets the piece of red wool fly out of his hand. You’ll have to read it to find out where it went. This is illustrated in clean tones of creams and greens and woody colours that lend a delicate feel to the story. A beautiful story about how one small thing you do to help one person can have flow on effect that may help many more people.
Resources:
A bit about the author: https://wilkinsfarago.com.au/authors-illustrators/anne-gaelle-balpe/
Available here… https://www.target.com/p/the-little-red-thread-by-anne-ga-lle-balpe-hardcover/-/A-78621502
10 Ways kids can help others:… https://www.pinterest.nz/pin/191614159128821208/
Random acts of Kindness… https://www.verywellfamily.com/random-acts-of-kindness-for-kids-4136440
I’m always happy reviewing Picture Books that come my way and share them with you. If you would like to see more please pop over to Susanna Leonard Hills Blog where there are hundreds of books reviewed by other like-minded authors and writers. Thank you for popping in and I hope you return again soon
Writer and Dreamer at work 
This book looks so adorable with a nice message. Thanks, Diane for the review.
Your welcome Darlene. Thank you.
What a fantastic picture book to share with children. The message of sharing what you have with others is an important one.
Yes, it is a lovely book and one that should be in all libraries and stores. Thank you Leslie.
I love this book! And it shows how the act of giving is more important that the “size” of what you give. Great rec! Thank you!
Thank you Jilanne, glad you like my choice this week. I love it too.
What a beautiful story. It reminds me of a book I read, “A Happy Hat” — about a hat being repurposed over the years. It would pair well with your beautiful story. Think my grandkids would like this book! Thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome Pat. It is a beautiful story. Thanks for commenting.
I used to collect bits of yarn and string – this is definitely a book I need to read. And I love the idea of sharing it with other creatures.
Thank you Sue. Glad you liked this one. It does have a great message.