Goose Egg Island, written by Julia Richardson and illustrated by Meneka Repka. Sleeping Bear Press. 2025. $26.99 ages 4 and up

 

"At the island's edge,
Goose locates last year's nesting spot. 
She sits, pushing her webbed feet 
while turning. Then lines the hole 
with twigs, leaves, and moss. Last, 
she plucks a fuzzy blanket from 
her chest." 

Young readers may not know that Canada geese are paired for life. On the opening spread, Goose and Gander break away from the flock and land on the island that is their home year after year. They spend time resting after their long migration; Gander watches with one eye while Goose sleeps. When intruders do their best to take their space, they are chased away. 

Spring arrives with sunshine and melting ice. The geese are able to paddle their pond and find food. The time comes for a new family. Goose finds their old nesting place and prepares it for the five eggs she will lay. To incubate those eggs, Goose sits and does nothing else while Gander keeps watch. Fox has no chance of getting close to the eggs. Goose does nothing but incubate; Gander does nothing but guard. 

The warmth of spring sunshine awakens green shoots to grow and bloom. The two geese continue their daily vigil. An excited puppy is no match for Gander who distracts the dog until it is too tired to play the chasing game anymore. Twenty-eight days of sitting and guarding leads to what they have been waiting for ... five sweet goslings to swim with their father, while Goose takes sustenance from the surrounding island setting. How pleased are these attentive parents! 

Through the summer, the geese grow and change in preparation for the migration that happens in the early fall. An author's note explains the joy inherent in watching each year as a pair of geese return to the pond, raise their family, and leave only to return the following year. She then includes further Fascinating Facts that she wants her readers to know. 

With carefully chosen text and repetition in some of the phrasing, Ms. Richardson provides a meaningful lesson for young readers. Colorful, detailed illustrations by Meneka Repka help with context and appeal.