Review - Shelter

Shelter
by Céline Claire
illustrated by Qin Leng
Date: 2017
Publisher: Kids Can Press
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book
Pages: 47
Format: e-book
Source: library

As a big storm approaches, two strangers arrive in the forest. All the animal families, safe in their homes, are worried. They wonder, “What are they doing there? What do they want?” So, as the pair knocks at the door of one home after another asking for shelter, all the animals turn them away, leaving them to fend for themselves. But then an accident suddenly forces the fox family out into the snow and the wind, and the foxes find they must ask these outsiders for help. Will they find it in their hearts to give it?

(synopsis from Goodreads)

I wasn't sure if I liked the illustrations in this one at first, but they grew on me. This is a cute story about generosity with woodland creatures playing the roles. When two strangers come to the woods during a storm, nobody wants to help them, even though they are in a position to. But when the tables are turned, a family is taught an important lesson.

The story is poignant, but simple enough for kids to understand. And the illustrations of all the animals in their various shelters (and clothes!) are really cute.

I'd definitely give this one a try if you like picture books with a good message.

Premise: 4/5
Meter: n/a
Writing: 4/5
Illustrations: 3/5
Originality: 3/5

Enjoyment: 4/5

Overall: 3.67 out of 5