"Skunk sighed and nodded. "Yes, 'hope' seems right to
me. Gentle and kind is the way I would like the world
to be. I hope it will be that way. But Badger, if it were
true that kindness and gentleness were the best way
to win a kingdom - or win anything at all - wouldn't
everyone do it? Not everyone is gentle and kind."
Just say Jon Klassen and I am going to look to buy a book he has illustrated. Because of my admiration for his work, I found this new novel by Amy Timberlake. I am very pleased that I did. Thank you, Jon.
We meet Badger first. Badger loves his quiet life. He lives in a house that belongs to his Aunt Lula who no longer lives there herself. The biggest room in the house (known as the living room to many) is given over to his Important Rock Work. He has filled it with rocks and minerals, and spends many quiet hours and days identifying them. To him, it is necessary and provides much-needed research and learning.
Then, Skunk arrives, full of noisy bravado and insisting on a comfortable place to stay. Badger is not keen on company, and does his best to discourage Skunk's occupancy. Skunk is determined, and begins making changes that are very uncomfortable for Badger: taking over his Box Room, making a mess with his cooking while expecting Badger to do the clean-up, inviting chickens for a visit, and so on.
Can things actually get worse? Oh yes, they can. A visit from a stoat causes terror, and an accidental skunk spray leads to an angry and hurtful response from Badger. Skunk makes quick work of leaving. Badger is happy to be alone once more, or is he?
You are going to love this book; kids are going to love it, too. Great as a classroom read, or for a family, this is a story that will resonate with all who share it. Humorous, poignant, sly, and silly, kids will want to hear it again and again.
Oh, and Jon Klassen's artwork? Everything we have come to expect. He gives such character to Badger and Skunk ... and all those many chickens! Expressive? Yes! Exquisite setting? Yes! Charming? Of course, they are. Enjoy every minute spent immersing yourself in this new 'classic' read. You will not be sorry!
"It would never work out! But Skunk certainly has his moments ...”
Could this be a new series? One can only hope so.
So excited to read this and know that Skunk and Badger are gaining a fan club. And yes, yes it is the first of a new series, according to an interview I read with Amy Timberlake. I haven't stopped thinking about this pair and their little town and those chickens and the depth of their effects on each other since I read it- twice!
ReplyDeleteHi Sally,
ReplyDeleteAlways fascinated when I see you are still at it, promoting great children's books!
Yes, this is the start of a new chapter book series. I'm feeling all "Frog & Toad" about the whole thing!
After 30 years, I'm hanging up my skates next month and retiring. It's been fun, but time to go.
All the best,
Terry