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Wednesday, July 7, 2021

On the Other Side of the Forest, written by Nadine Robert and illustrated by Gerard Dubois. Translated by Paula Ayer. Greysone KIds, 2021. $24.95 ages


"When the sun comes up, even more 
villagers than yesterday are waiting
in front of our house, with even more 
stones. 

Our tower is getting tall. 
"Soon we'll be able to see 
to the other side of the forest!"
Dad says excitedly, wiping his 
forehead.
"

A young rabbit narrates this story, immediately letting the reader know that he lives with his father and their dog 'in the middle of a clearing surrounded by a big forest'. People fear the forest for what might live there. Though his dad doesn't believe the stories he is told, he has always wanted to know what is on the other side. 

One day, his introspective father comes up with an exciting idea; they are going to build a tower so they can finally discover what is on the other side. How? Dad explains and then moves to action. First, he uses their newly-milled grain to make some dough for bread. The aroma from the baked bread attracts a neighbor. Dad agrees to exchange a loaf for four large stones. A long line of neighbors carrying stones forms. When the bread is gone, father and son begin their work. 

Building a tower is hard and tiring work, especially when combined with bread baking at night. Dad is encouraged by the response of the community. The stone pile grows, as does the tower to help them see to the other side. Father and son work together, and villagers add to their rock pile. It won't be long until is is high enough. When a rain storm stops bread production and ruins the tower, Dad is done! 

The villagers are not; they use their collective strength and community spirit to help complete the tower while Dad returns the favor with a bounty of bread. The completion of the tower, and the excited climb to the top results in a huge surprise! 

With only a touch of high drama, Ms, Robert offers a heartwarming tale of family, community, and cooperation. Impressive artwork strengthens the telling with images of the forest setting, the hard work, and the action of the community as they assist a friend in trying to bring a 'magnificent' idea to fruition.   
                                                                                       

                                                           

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