"Next you need feathers -
for warmth
and for flight.
Smooth these over the bones
of your bird shape;
press them firmly into place.
Save the longest feathers
for the wings and tail."
What a feeling it must be to take all the time needed to build something of great importance! For the child in this exemplary story of creativity and imagination time passes slowly, as it must, while she creates a bird. She knows what she needs, and first finds the bones (very tiny) to build the bird's shape (any bird will do). As she moves forward through the process, readers are made aware of each slow step. After bones and feathers, the builder adds a heart. It needs to be strong for all the hard work that will be required to carry it where it needs to go. Final touches, and the bird is ready.
"But when you see it sitting,
cold as a statue, you will know
that there is more to a bird than
these things you have given it."
When the time is right, it is time to let it go. Sad, yes. Happy, too. All the hard work beautifully worthwhile.
Matt Ottley, using pigmented ink, creates dreamy artwork that speaks to the intangible quality of Ms. McKinlay's magical text. His spreads are both glorious and memorable. After looking to have it published for 16 years, what a coup it is for us to see it this year. It will make an enduring impression on every reader!
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