On Sand Island

by Jacqueline Briggs Martin Narrated by Tom Stechschulte

Overview

Jacqueline Briggs Martin, author of multiple ALA Notable Books, delivers an entertaining tale that teaches the value of hard work. Carl Diehl is a ten-year-old boy who dreams of building a boat. With a little help from neighbors, family, and friends, Carl's dream becomes a reality. Tom Stechschulte's narration captivates listeners, making them feel a part of the Sand Island community.

Editorial Reviews

Kirkus Reviews

The author of Snowflake Bentley (1998) and the illustrator of Amy Cohn's Abraham Lincoln (2002) team up for an atmospheric picture of fishing village life on an island in Lake Superior several generations ago. Setting out to build a boat from salvaged boards, ten-year-old Carl trades labor with his adult neighbors for needed skills, nails, paint, and other supplies, then rows off on an idyllic, long-anticipated outing. Martin's measured prose-"Carl dreamed about boats. / He drew the boat he would build: / a little flat-bottomed pound boat / like the fishermen use . . . "-gives the episode a grave, formal feeling, and Johnson's delicately lined, low-contrast paintings respectfully depict a community in which "island neighbors are closer than cousins," always willing to give each other a hand. Thoughtful readers will appreciate this low-key tribute to a child's determination, and to the mutual respect that binds a community together. (Picture book. 7-9)

From the Publisher

A subtle, beautifully crafted story about hard work, simple joys, and the small, warm communities of the historic upper–Midwest.” Booklist, ALA, Starred Review

“Lyrical tale, told in the rhythms of lapping water.” Publishers Weekly, Starred

"There is pleasure, a sense of wonder, and appreciation for small details in nature and community in this celebration of a boy's first success. The writing has a smooth, easy-rhythm and flow of oars dipping and lifting through the water, and with each immersion a fine thought surfaces." School Library Journal

“Thoughtful readers will appreciate this low–key tribute to a child’s determination, and to the mutual respect that binds a community together.” Kirkus Reviews

"Johnson's watercolors rely on pale, mottled tones punctuated with fine yet crisp black lines; this technique results in an interestingly translucent, Japanese aura in the scenes of nature." The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Product Details

BN ID:	2940169273380
Publisher:	Recorded Books, LLC
Publication date:	02/22/2013
Edition description:	Unabridged
Age Range:	8 - 11 Years

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