M E R I D I A N     M A G A Z I N E

Animal Books for All Ages
By Holly E. Newton

Last week, I reviewed books about animals that were geared for older kids. This week I will concentrate on picture books on the same subject, but picture books can span across the age differences. So here are some outstanding animal picture books with only a few that are specifically for younger children. The first four books are suitable for all ages, and the rest are geared for the little ones.

Swift, written and illustrated by Robert J. Blake, is a beautifully painted story about the harshness of the far north. Swift is a husky that is much loved by a father and his son, Johnny. While out hunting with their dog, the father gets into some trouble as he attempts to shoot a bear. He has twisted his leg and is unable to move, so he asks his son to take Swift and get help.

The biggest problem that Johnny faces besides the fact that it is very cold and snowy is that they are very far away from the nearest town. But with Swift’s help, he knows he can find the long way back.

Furthermore, the bear is still a problem as Johnny is swiftly going through the forest. When the bear is about to attack boy and dog, Johnny gets a shot off and injures the bear. The bear runs off, but Johnny is still worried because he remembers that his father often said, “A wounded bear is the most dangerous bear.”

Johnny is just beginning an adventure that will lead him back to this bear, across snow-filled forests and ice that cracks under his feat. But with the help of his trusty dog, he’s able to survive and get help for his dad. The story and oil paintings will compel you to sit by your fire or snuggle where it is warm and appreciate all the luxuries that many who live off the land in this country don’t enjoy! This is a remarkable story!

And while I’m reviewing books about huskies, Wind-Wild Dog, by Barbara Joosse, and oil paintings by Kate Kiesler, is another story about a dog who wants to help his master pull his sled. But will he stay or will he run away to be with the wild wolves that live not far from camp? There is added information in the back of the book that lists little-known words and facts about the region.

Frightful’s Daughter, by Jean Craighead George, and illustrated by Daniel San Souci, is a story about a falcon named Frightful whose offspring are the obsession of a sneaky weasel. When young Sam discovers that the Baron Weasel is looking at the babies as food for his offspring, he devises a way to keep the falcons safe. The gorgeous watercolors bring out the beauty of nature and the story will capture your heart.

Big Black Horse (a storybook version of The Black Stallion), by Walter Farley, and retro pictures by James Schucker, is now available after 50 years. The story, about a young boy and a beautiful stallion and a shipwreck and how these two begin to build a life-long relationship.

Donkey-donkey, written and illustrated by Roger Duvioisin, is a simple story about self-image. When Donkey-donkey looks into a stream with the horse, Pat, he sees that his ears are much longer than Pat’s. Now he feels ugly and miserable. He begins to seek help from his animal friends of what to do about his awful ears, and they give him advice not geared for donkeys. So, he remains depressed and continues to look for help until he meets a girl who helps him feel good about how he looks. This book was first published back in 1933, and the artwork reflects the era, but the theme remains as pertinent today as back then.

Ivan the Terrier, written and illustrated by Peter Catalanotto, is an uproarious story that begs to be read aloud! The story begins with “Once upon a time there were three billy goats named Gruff.” You see three goats grazing on a palate of green but upon turning the page, the text has become large, bold and with exclamations! A small terrier is barking madly and the text asks, “Where did that dog come from?” The text changes to another story about “The Three Bears.” They are seated happily at their table as they are about to eat their porridge. But as you turn the page, larger and bolder text is telling the terrier to sit and that this story isn’t about him! The picture shows a large disruption taking place as bowls and cups are dislodged and the bears are dismayed.

Henry the Dog with No Tail, by Kate Feiffer, and illustrated by Jules Feiffer, is a clever story about
a dog who is frustrated about having no tail. As he searches to try to find something to replace the stub
on the back of his body, he discovers that there is much more to happiness than just a tail — or the lack
thereof.

Click here to sign up for Meridian's FREE email updates