Wonder & Awe

August 1, 2024
On a snowy day, a child in a red coat creates a new pal. The young narrator rolls and stacks three balls out of snow, pops on blue earmuffs and a cape, and inserts a carrot nose, thus making a snowgirl called Wonder. Wonder comes alive and helps the child recognize the beauty all around. The girl realizes: "I'm in awe." As winter goes on, the relationship deepens and the child is unaccountably sad when Wonder melts. The youngster cries in Mom's arms; the world turns colorless until the child notices a golden feather and then a bird's nest. The little one's interest in creatures and people has been reawakened. The child enjoys a happy summer, engages with diverse classmates, and looks forward to reconnecting with Wonder as the weather turns cold. Illogically but magically, Wonder reappears without the child's help. As the book comes to a close, the pair savor home-baked springerle cookies and hot drinks. The wintry, multimedia illustrations have a pinkish, yellowish, and bluish glow, illuminating the white snow. When Wonder disappears, gray descends, until the warm bright colors of summer come back when feelings and awe reenter the child's life. This quiet seasonal story reminds readers to look to nature and the imagination for emotional support. Mom and child have light beige skin. A friendship tale to keep readers warm all winter long--and beyond.(Picture book. 5-7)

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