QUIET
by Tomie dePaola
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Picture Book
32 pages
ages 4 to 8
Tomie dePaola reminds us that mindfulness—being quiet, still, and present with one another—is a very special thing.
Everything is in such a hurry, busy as busy can be.
The birds are flying so fast, the dragonfly is zooming over the water—even the trees are waving their leaves.
So what if we sit here, you next to me…and we can just be?
MY TIDBITS
The cover already hints at the atmosphere found in the pages of this calming read. Every moment takes a look at nature—the buzzing bees, playing dog, and zooming dragonflies. The scenes are concentrated and uncomplicated, keeping the attention on each part of nature which is being addressed. Each two-page spread is accompanied by one or two lines of short text. Especially younger listeners can easily follow along and recognize the scenes.
The illustrations are created with watercolors and have a simple, personal touch—a style which won't be appreciated by everyone. But the gentle tones and lines fit nicely to the intended message.
It's a calming read-aloud and invites listeners to take the time to watch nature. The 'busy' moments didn't always carry a sense of hectic, but the last pages hit home. Especially those in search of more mindfulness will enjoy this tale.
And here he is...
Tomie dePaola is one of the most popular children's book authors and illustrators of our time and the winner of the 2011 Children's Literature Legacy Award for "significant and lasting contribution to children's literature," among other lifetime achievement awards. A Newbery HOnor winner, he has written and illustrated a number of books, including Caldecott Honor book Strega Nana and its companions as well as Oliver Button is a Sissy; The Legend of Old Befana; The Clown of God; Michael Bird-Boy; Andy, That's My Name; and Quiet. A native of Connecticut, Mr. dePaola studied at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, and now lives in New London, New Hampshire. Visit him online a t Tomie. coma nd TomiesBlog.Blogspot.com.
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