I've become a fan of Kazuo Iwamura. This particular book will make you smile, worry a bit, and at the end go "Ahhh...how sweet". It's a lovely story of a moment in time.
Basically, it's a gentle illustration of friendship and trust between people, er, animals who aren't the same. While the squirrels dominate the tale, I couldn't help wanting to give the little mouse girl a hug at one point. She was scared by the raging storm and a tear escapes her eyes. She wants her "Mommy!", a feeling many humans share when they're scared or just need reassurance. The illustration of the storm is excellent, utilizing color and lines to represent the loud boom of thunder and sizzling lightning that follows. But, I get ahead of myself....
I loved how the animals, different species that they may be, work together. Not only does a bird warn them to seek shelter but there are three different types of animals represented. Besides the already mention squirrels and mice, a rabbit appears and politely asks if it may enter. A nice, subtle reminder to always be polite. The book begins with just the squirrels using nature's see-saw and ends with inclusiveness as the mice and rabbit have joined them.
Mick the squirrel dubs them all the Summer Storm Friends, a notion that going through something together can forge bonds, a hint that's as applicable to humans as it is adorable little creatures. The illustrations are sweet, using subtle colors and lines to depict the soft warmth of a summer day and the sudden fury of a thunderstorm. It's a fun read that I can visualize stimulating discussion between parents and children.
Thanks #NetGalley and #NorthSouthBooks for letting me spend a summer day with all it's warmth and fury with the squirrel children and their new friends. A great way to subtly depict acceptance and inclusion.
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