Our world is so big.
Our world is so old.
We are each
a small, small piece.
Yet in your time,
you will see so much.
You will meet so many."
Following Wish (Disney, 2015) and Dream (Disney, 2017) comes this book about another pair of animals and the children they love. This time they are a lion and a lioness, and they are grandparents. As the two run toward the hut that holds their grandchild, they are filled with memories of the lives they have led. They speak to the fact that, following all of the many challenging and wonderful events of their lives, they are tired.
In this new grandchild, they see hope for the future. They also know there will be amazing lessons to learn, other animals to meet, and visits to the places and paths they, too, have taken. They have faith that this grandchild will find their own important path.
"Dearest Grandchild,
The world is not always light.
At times it goes dark.
When even together,
we are apart.
In these times,
We must look for light.
We must look for hope."
Matt Cordell's words will resonate with parents and grandparents who read this book to their much-loved children and grandchildren. It is filled with emotion and truth, and is perfect for bedtime reading because of its quiet, peaceful tone. Young listeners will note the bond that it inspires ... knowing that those who came before them share many of the same things they will experience. It is the circle of life.
When grandparents are gone, as inevitably happens, their love will not be forgotten. Ending the book with a note from grandchildren to grandparents is a loving assertion that their love and hope will live on in this new generation.
Matthew Cordell's warm and inspiring watercolor illustrations are a perfect accompaniment to the story's tone.
Add this one to your list of books to buy for baby showers.
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