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Friday, November 22, 2019

Wintercake, by Lynne Rae Perkins. Greenwillow, Harper. 2019. $21.99 ages 4 and up

"The two friends looked at
one another. They looked at
the wintercake, on its plate
with its ribbon. They looked
down at their shadows, blue
shapes on the snow. A trail of
crispy footprints led from where they stood, away through the forest. "That's it!" cried Lucy.

When Thomas realizes he has misplaced his fruit basket, he begins a search that leads from inside to outside. Looking in all of the usual places, he is unable to find it. His friend Lucy is willing to help him solve the mystery. After all, it holds all the fruit for Thomas's
wintercake. How will they truly celebrate if he cannot make his traditional treat?

Lucy tries to assure him that the holiday is more important than the food. Thomas is not convinced. Lucy flies off, straight into a winter storm. After forced to the ground by the storm's power, she finds her way toward a tea room that is tucked into the boughs of an evergreen. As she listens there to incessant conversation concerning the weather, she hears an unexpected admission.

"Found me a nice basket of 
dried-up fruits this morning. 
Perfect for wintercake."

The creature with the basket makes an exit. Lucy is quick to follow. The 'scroudrel' goes straight to Thomas's door, and explains that a waiter suggested where the owner could be found. Thomas is delighted; Lucy is contrite. Impressed with the honesty, they decide to make a wintercake as a thank you.

A problem arises when they have no idea where to deliver it. Luckily, tracks in the snow lead them on a journey filled with 'obstacles' and 'difficullties'. They carry on, knowing it is the right thing to do. Soon, they are cold and hopelessly lost. Wait! Is that a light?

This is a perfectly paced tale of friendship, kindness, and celebration. The variety in color and perspective chosen to tell it visually adds to the feelings evoked when a false accusation leads to a chance to make amends.

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