Home in the Woods
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5.0 • 3 Ratings
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- $7.99
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- $7.99
Publisher Description
This stunningly beautiful picture book from New York Times bestselling author-illustrator Eliza Wheeler is based on her grandmother's childhood and pays homage to a family's fortitude as they discover the meaning of home.
Eliza Wheeler's gorgeously illustrated book tells the story of what happens when six-year-old Marvel, her seven siblings, and their mom must start all over again after their father has died. Deep in the woods of Wisconsin they find a tar-paper shack. It doesn't seem like much of a home, but they soon start seeing what it could be. During their first year it's a struggle to maintain the shack and make sure they have enough to eat. But each season also brings its own delights and blessings--and the children always find a way to have fun. Most importantly, the family finds immense joy in being together, surrounded by nature. And slowly, their little shack starts feeling like a true home--warm, bright, and filled up with love.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Somber artwork by Wheeler (When You Are Brave) sets the tone for the opening of her Depression-era tale of a family forced to start over. Based on the memories of Wheeler's grandmother, the story follows six-year-old Marvel, her seven siblings, and their mother as they strike out into the forest, lugging bedding trussed up with rope and pushing a wheelbarrow full of pots and pans. "Dad lives with the angels now," Marvel begins, "and we need to find a new home." The tiny, ramshackle dwelling they spy in the woods looks forbidding, but there's a pump in the cellar and good soil for planting, all captured in delicate illustrations. Brighter hues start to creep into the spreads as the family settles in, discovers berries growing nearby, and harvests the garden ("Some treasures take a little time"). When the "marvelous things" at the general store prove too expensive, the children set up a play shop of their own, making sweets of mud and money of leaves. The family's ability to make do helps them survive the winter and greet the spring. With the lure of an old-fashioned shipwreck narrative, Wheeler's story champions initiative, self-reliance, and familial closeness. Ages 5 8.)
Customer Reviews
A Past Too Soon Forgotten
Growing up in Ohio in the 60s I heard similar stories from family and friends. Having lived over 25 yrs in Asia and heard similar tales. This book should be shared with young and old alike to remind us about who we are and what makes life worth living.