"SO WHILE AMOS SLEPT:
The elephant borrowed a broom
and began to tidy up.
The penguin gave friendly reminders
not to wake the zookeeper.
The rhinocerous made sure all the
littlest creatures were fed.
The owl instructed visitors on the
importance of animal conservation ... "
Happy New Year 2022
Let's begin this brand-new year with kindness. We surely need more of it.
Amos and his animal friends set a good example for all. In this return visit to the zoo and its genial caretaker, we are reminded of our introduction in A Sick Day for Amos McGhee (Roaring Book, 2010). What a worthy crew they are!
I love Amos. So, apparently, do the denizens of his workplace. Like many of us as we grow older, Amos does not always sleep well. The reason is evident; he is planning an adventure for his friends for the next day. Morning arrives, and Amos begins in a befuddled state. While waiting for the kettle to boil on an unlit stove, he falls fast asleep at the table. He wakes with a start, knowing that he is likely to be late for work.
The number five bus is long gone, and Amos begins the long trek to the zoo, knowing that his plan for his friends later in the day is not likely to happen. He is quick to apologize to his many friends as he explains his reason for being late. The hardworking keeper is soon fast asleep on a park bench. Knowing the empathy of animals, readers will not be surprised to see what is happening in the zoo while Amos rests. When he awakes, the work is done and Amos is able to follow through on the plan he made so excitedly.
The Steads have again created a world filled with patience, kindness, and love. The pencil and woodblock artwork that graces the book's pages are an absolutely perfect match to the quiet joy that emanates from the calm found in the carefully worded telling. Savor every tiny detail!
Such a distinct pleasure to join Amos and his insightful friends in this second charmer. This love and kindess makes the heart beat faster.
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