Author/Illustrator: Kazuo Iwamura
Publisher: NorthSouth
Publication Date: April 1, 2010
Length: 32 Pages
Grade Level: Preschool - Kindergarten
About the Author
Kazuo Iwamura was born in Tokyo. Japan. He is one of the most famous picture book artists in Japan. His work has won many awards. He lives in Tochigi, where he founded the Museum for Picture Book Illustrations.
Outdoor Summer Fun
Children love to play outdoors in the summer. Three squirrel siblings are playing outdoors when a sudden thunderstorm interrupts their fun. There is no time to run home, so they find shelter in a cave.
The squirrels discover they are not alone in the cave. A mouse brother and sister are also hiding from the storm. Soon a rabbit joins them.
They are all very frightened of the thunder, lightning, and rain. Everyone trembles with fear.
At last, the storm is over and the sky grows brighter. All the animals in the cave rush outside to play with their new "Summer Storm Friends".
My Thoughts
I can personally relate to this story because I have been caught outside in several sudden Texas thunderstorms. This can be a frightening experience for people of all ages.
Little Molly Mouse was so frightened that she called out for her mother. The author did a good job illustrating the emotion of fear but he also provided safe shelter and the reassurance of the other animals.
Children will probably remember times when they were frightened just like little Molly. This story could lead to discussions on what to do when you are afraid.
The story had a happy ending when the storm passed over and the new friends went back outside to play. The illustrations are very expressive and add value to the story.
This book was first published in Japan in 1986. This is a timeless story that children of many generations will read and enjoy.
MY RATING: 5 STARS OUT OF 5
Thank you to NetGalley for a wonderful reading experience.
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