Once Upon a Forest review

 

After a fire leaves the forest smoldering, a determined marmot and her resourceful bird friend set off on a rescue mission in this beautifully illustrated, wordless story.
 (goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

While tending to her garden, a marmot notices smoke in the distance. She goes to investigate and sees a helicopter putting out a forest fire.  With the help of her friend little bird, she packs up tools, supplies and saplings from home and is saddened to find the remains of the devastation caused by a wildfire.  Determined to regrow the forest, marmot and bird clear, pull, dig and plant saplings bringing new life back to the charred land.

 

I have always been a fan of wordless picture books.  It is especially important that the illustrations convey a meaning and emotion.  In this heartwarming story, you will feel what marmot feels; wonder, sadness, anger, determination and the joy of watching that determination grow by the touching illustrations.  The black and white pencil drawings are simple but yet expressive.  Adding a hint of green on the saplings and touches of blue for the water enhances the beauty to the storytelling.  The characters show that caring for our earth will make a difference when they plant new saplings and watch over them until they are sturdy and strong.  Encouraging your child to sit and tell you the story by what they see happening through the pictures is a great way to build comprehension.  There is so much opportunity for discussion after reading this beautiful story.  I think this is a just right book for ages 4-7.~

 

Title:  Once Upon a Forest

Author:  Pam Fong

Pub. date:  February 2022, Random House

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.