Review: So Which Way IS His Home?
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 03 4, 2013
"Which Way is My Home?" by John G. Pedicini is a fun little story about a seagull whose home on an iceberg broke away and started melting as it drifted south. In his search for a new home the little seagull encountered polar bears, the dark of night, flocks of intolerant gulls, wind and sea storms, and plain old fatigue.When at last he is blown right into the side of an oak tree, he slides to the ground to rest awhile. While resting, he hears the sound of children crying. Nearby several small children with a puppy were lost in the woods, frightened by the storm and the sounds of hungry creatures in the dark.Soon a large group of coyotes circled the children, creeping ever closer. The children knew their end was not far away. Suddenly, a bolt of lightning hit the old oak tree, splitting it right down the middle! Now it was the coyotes' turn to be afraid, as they all ran away from the falling tree. What would happen to the children? What about the little gull - would he find a new home? Or were they all destined to be coyote food?In a moment of confusion, the puppy became separated from the group, only to find himself back in peril amongst the coyotes. But the little gull called to the coyotes to come and eat him instead of the little pup, so they started over toward the gull. But just then...This is, as I said, a fun little story. It has very nicely drawn illustrations, it is written in verse, and it has just enough suspense to keep young children enthralled... no matter how many times you may have to read it to them! If I have any criticism at all, it is that the coyote pack is drawn just a little bit TOO well, and might frighten some children. A little reassurance from a parent should resolve that potential problem adequately.I've encountered a lot of children's books lately that were very skimpy on the illustrations, opting instead for page after page of text. That may be fine for older children, but for the very young, good illustrations are vital. "Which Way is My Home?" fills the bill very nicely. I definitely recommend this book for anybody who reads to small children. As long as you control the coyotes, this would make a nice bedtime story.