South

South

McDonnell, P. (2008). South. New York: Little, Brown and Company.

0316005096

With an initial plot similar to the movie Home Alone, one little birdie sleeps in and is left behind when his flock flies south for the winter. A friendly cat guides the little bird in the right direction to be reunited with the other birds.

This almost wordless picturebook (there is a little weeping), uses a few neutral colors to show the transition of colors between fall and winter. While children will immediately sympathize with the bird and the experience of being lost, what was most endearing for me was that the cat takes the bird by the wing and guides it with her paw (think holding hands, animal style). Added to this, part of their journey takes them into a human city and both the bird and cat seem small and childlike, perhaps sending the message that children can help children.

Activities to do with the book:

This book can trigger a discussion of the experience of being lost with young children. A teacher or parent could make suggestions of who a young person can approach if they find themselves lost or left behind.

To go another direction, a teacher could also discuss the seasons and their influence upon birds and other animals.

If a classroom pairs with a class of older students, this book could be used to help introduce the mentor-mentee relationship.

For more of my reviews, visit sjkessel.blogspot.com.

South is a wonderful tale that your child can read to you!

McDonnell's expressive art leads in this heartwarming tale of a little lost bird and a sweet cat who responsibly and kindly helps him find his way. Destined to be a classic.....

South is Sweet!

Mooch befriends a little bird and shows what true friendship is all about.

Nobel Peace Prize for P McDonnell

Ever since I read my first MUTTS strip quite by accident, I have been desperately addicted to the noblest of all creatures: a Mooch, an Earl, & most of all, the man who brings their gifts to us, Patrick McDonnell. He is a comfort to us indeed in this oft difficult world. This deceivingly 'simple' story is as deep as they come, & though they are all precious, this is his most endearing book by far. It is a quiet, soulful journey from the start, when the baby bird's tears appeal to Mooch's earnest heart. Mooch then offers his hand, his back, and his gentle guidance to the bird in a quest south to find his family. Though it is entitled 'South', it is the journey rather than the destination that gives this story meaning. We watch Mooch play the role of an older sibling, a loving friend, a calm parent attuned to the needs of one who is younger & inexperienced. A telling moment is when Mooch appears to shorten his much needed '& loved' nap in deference to a young child's impatience with all things 'unnecessary'. When at last, they find the bird's family, Mooch has his own tears to contend with- tears of a gift proffered & a gift received. And what a precious gift it is- If you are having a hard day or hard moment, pick up a MUTTS book, and you will find your way back to the light. Required reading for all ages.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.