"To be nestled with you,
under the sea,
I'll protect you,
and you'll protect me."
Julie Flett's dedication is both heartfelt and inspiring for those who hear its quiet words:
One night when my son was around five years old and
I was putting him to bed, I told him about my great
love for him. He became concerned for a moment and
asked, "But do you love all the children?" He thought
that would only be fair. I did and do, beyond measure.
I told him this, and we both sighed a sigh of relief.
It could not be more important for you to know that
you are loved. This book is dedicated to you.
A baby bear is asked if it is stuck in a tree. The illustration shows a bigger bear on its way to give aid. A little duckling is asked if it is lost in the sea, as a fish returns it to shore and its delighted family. A large turtle comes to the rescue of a smaller one lying upside down. The following scene in this first part of the book shows children showing the same love as the animals have shown each other.
That love is everywhere little readers look as the book is shared. Between parent and child, between the community and the earth, support is given from one to the other. The stunning artwork, done in pastel and pencil and then digitally completed, invites attention and comment for the beauty found on all of its pages.
Just right for bedtime, or any other time of the day. Feeling the love that is spread throuoghout makes it a book that will be shared many times. It's a simple message, but perhaps most important is that simplicity.
A glossary of Cree animal names is added, as well as a letter from Julie to the reader. So lovely!
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