"His favorite maple
was as tall as his mother -
taller than the other trees
who hid the field
and filled it with shade
and breeze."
As I have mentioned recently, there are such marvelous books being published this season that inspire kids and parents to get outside and take note of the peace and beauty to be found there. Emile's story tells of his love for a field. When we first meet him, he and his dog are alone in a field rife with vibrant wildflowers. He is happy. The field is a place of peace and wonder for the tiny child. He spends hours there, listening to the buzzing of bees and following in their path. There is no one else with him.
Summer turns to fall, and Emile wonders if the field knows what it is missing: the sea, skyscrapers and airplanes. Perhaps not, but the field knows a lot about fall and night stars. Emile remains inquisitive and asks his father what it knows about weather. What will happen when it is covered with snow? He doesn't like that other children are sharing his field in winter. His father gently reminds that if all children learn to love the field and help take care of it, it will have a long life.
"Emile thought
and thought -
he liked the idea
a lot. The field
would not, could not
be bought! or belong
to anyone."
Lovely translucent artwork, done in watercolor and ink, provides a glorious setting for Emile. He shows in every way the honor and love he has for it.
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