Reading Bob Graham's picture books just seems to soothe me. His stories bring me back to what is most important in life and for children. In his most recent book, How to Heal a Broken Wing, Bob gives readers hope when there is doubt. He reminds us to slow down and pay attention to little things in life.
In this story, life begins fast paced with busy people in a big city until Will ( a boy 6yr old or so) spots and unnoticed pigeon with a broken wing. He doesn't think, he just picks it up immediately wanting to help the unmoving bird. His mother quickly uses her scarf to take the bird from Will and they head back to their city apartment. ( This part in the story allowed my kids to talk about how to ask an adult to help rescue a hurt animal, how important it is to use gloves to handle wild animals and local service agencies that can help.) The next few pages are almost graphic novel-like as the story is pieced in multiple frames. With the tender loving care, Will's family helps to nurse the broken-winged pigeon to health and in the end the pigeon successfully flies back with the other birds in the city. You immediately fall in love with Will, his family and the message of hope the book portrays. It is one of my favorite books of 2008.
1 comment:
I have a book called, Martha with a similar story line and message. It would make great side by side book, showcasing the ideas of empathy and caring for others. At the end, Martha finds her way back into the world, but nests nearby.
Let me know if you would like to borrow it and I'll send it school mail.
Andrea
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