maniacs. Until a ripe patch of
thimbleberries slows us down.
El teaches us how to make
leaf baskets.
The hike gets steep and the
trail narrows."
What is the plan? To hike to the top of Buck Mountain. Who's going? Three children whose favorite thing to do together is hike. The friends are Wren, El and Hattie. It is evident from the title page that each has a part to play in this adventure. Wren is to take a sketchbook and a flag. El will bring a poetry notebook. Hattie, the little one, brings feathers wrapped in a hanky. Their dog Bean is a constant companion. After final preparations are completed, they are ready and in a rush to get their day started.
It doesn't take long for them to realize that rushing the adventure is not the way to do it. They slow down, taking time to enjoy the berries, to learn how to make a leaf basket (thanks to the notes in Wren's sketchbook), and to moan about the abundance of berries they have managed to devour. As they move forward, the path becomes steeper and narrower. Soon, they are lost. Luckily, it's Hattie and her map to the rescue. While they wait for her instructions, Wren draws in her sketchbook and El considers the perfect word for a new poem.
Back on track, they take note of all that surrounds them. Despite rain and a few setbacks, they make their way to the summit and enjoy a shared celebration. Tired and happy, they plant the flag, read a poem and throw feathers to the wind. Then it is time to make the return trip, while taking in the starry night and the warm welcome of a lit window.
Readers will appreciate the beautiful, detailed illustrations that label the flora and fauna that are an integral part of their journey, and the joy to be found in being together. Following the story, eight pages from Wren's sketchbook add context and a charming look at what they have encountered throughout their very satisfying day. Don't be surprised if listeners are eager to try their hand at chronicling their own adventures in much the same way. Lovely ...
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