The Old Woman, written by Joanne Schwartz and illustrated by Nahid Kazemi. Groundwood, 2020. $18.95 ages 5 and up

"When they got back to the house, the old woman sat in her chair and put her feet up. She noticed a hole in the curtains. Tomorrow I'll mend them, she thought. She was tired. She closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep. The dog curled up, and soon began to snore."
 

An old woman and her dog are quiet companions.Their house is as simple as their needs. Almost any early morning finds the dog outside enjoying enough action to require a welcome snooze when he comes back inside. Today is a fall day, and nature beckons.  

Longing to hear some familiar autumn sounds, she enncouarges the dog to take a walk out into the surrounding hills. Gently blowing wind, and crunchy leaves beneath her feet are reminders of times past, when walks together were more frequent. The old woman has a destination in mind. As they go, she contentedly watches a crow fly past, and ponders the joy of flying. Throwing sticks for her pal results in her finding a perfect walking stick for herself. 

The boulder she has been looking for offers a perfect seat for her weary body. As they sit peacefully there, she thinks even more on times past. The harvest moonrise startles her with its almost indescribable beauty. Once home, the two rest their weary bones and fall into a relaxed and appreciated sleep. Morning brings warm sunshine, more memories, and contented companionship. 

The text is as unhurried as is the autumn day spent in quiet contemplation of all nature has to offer. Ms. Kazemi's textured mixed media artwork enhances the day's journey. What a joy it is to read.