SNOW ANGEL, SAND ANGEL by Lois-Ann Yamanaka, illustrated by Ashley Lukashevsky
ABOUT THE BOOK
Claire has been surrounded by the deep blue waves of Hapuna Beach and the magnificent mountains of Hawai'i all her life, but has never, ever seen snow. When her father drives her and her family to the top of the Mauna Kea, she can't help but to be disappointed...it's not the winter wonderland she's always dreamed of. And that's what she wants, more than anything.
But as Claire edges ever closer to the new year, she wonders if maybe-- just maybe--she can delight in the special joys of winter in her own way--right there, on her Big Island of Hawaii.
Includes back matter that captures the environmental culture of Hawaii, and will teach children not only about the local flora and fauna, but also the value of being environmentally friendly.
REVIEW
Claire's been surrounded by the sun and sand of Hawaii her whole life. But she wants something different. She wants to experience snow. Her father takes her to the top of Mauna Kea where she gets to experience snow for the first time. The 'old' crusty snow does not in any way live up to her imaginings. Despite her family's best efforts the experience is anything but satisfying for Claire. She continues to dream of enjoying 'real' snow, 'real' sledding, and building a 'real' snowman. It isn't until the next time her family goes to the beach and finds a way to celebrate winter in their own Hawaiian way (think sand snowman) that she begins to appreciate the beauty of her island home. How easy it is to relate to Claire as she dreams of something more than what she has in her life already. Sometimes the value of what have isn't fully appreciated until it's gone. Luckily, Claire learns to enjoy the beauties of home without having to lose it first. Lukashevsky's lovely illustrations are fully of striking characters and beautiful settings. The contrast between the experiences that Claire has at the top of Mauna Kea and the fun she has on the beach reminded me of some of my own experiences that helped me love my home all the more.
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