Giving Thanks
PreSchool-Grade 2-A simple prayer of appreciation for being alive and at one with nature. As a father and son take a hike through the countryside on a sunny fall day, the young narrator explains, "Dad believes that the things of nature are a gift. And that in return, we must give something back. We must give thanks." The man expresses his gratitude for various animals, insects, and trees, as well as for Grandfather Sun and Grandmother Moon. Though the youngster claims it feels strange to offer praise in this way, his father explains that it soon becomes a habit "that makes you feel good." As evening moves in and the two head home, the boy ventures a quiet "Thank you, stars." Large, colorful, oil-on-linen illustrations beautifully depict the various objects described in the text. Among the animals skillfully represented are a raccoon, a fox, a hawk, and a deer. Warm shades of green, brown, and gold grace the realistic paintings of an autumn landscape. Similar in tone to Chief Jake Swamp's Giving Thanks (Lee & Low, 1995), this is a gentle reminder to cherish what nature bestows so freely.Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WICopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.