PICTURE BOOK REVIEWS: Finding Fire by Logan S. Kline & Everywhere with You by Carlie Sorosiak
ABOUT THE BOOK
After a hard rain douses the family fire, a brave young boy sets out to search for more fire to bring home before the cold season sets in. Along the way, he’ll face many challenges, from perilous mountains to fearsome predators to raging rivers, and find something wholly unexpected: a friend. In his picture book debut, artist Logan S. Kline crafts a dramatic tale inspired by prehistoric times and told almost entirely through stunningly detailed illustrations. “Finding Fire started with the sketch of a small boy holding a torch and grew from there,” he says. “A lot of research went into creating the art for this book, yet the look of the boy changed very little over time as he was inspired by my children, from my younger son's wiry frame to my elder son's wild hair that goes in a million different directions.” This gorgeous adventure story just begs to be visited again and again, with each perusal promising new discoveries.
REVIEW
Finding Fire is a stunning, wordless picture book that won me over completely. I will be sharing this book for many years to come and it will hold a special place on my bookshelf. This is one of those books that I knew I wanted to read the minute I saw the cover. The art just spoke to me. Kline's art has all the elements that I particularly love in picture book art; appealing characters, a lush setting, and a compelling plot. The illustrations do such an amazing job telling the story that words aren't needed. This is one of those stories that it would be delightful to hear a child tell in his/her/their own words. The story revolves around a young boy living in prehistoric times who leaves home to find fire. Because his family does not yet know how to start a fire, they must rely on finding an existing fire and bringing it home. The fire must be kept going at all times. As the story begins, rain extinguishes the families fire, and the boy volunteers to go search for more. The boy faces real dangers along the way in the form of a river, saber-toothed tigers, and an injury. At this point, the boy faces real discouragement shown in the form of tears, this picture really tugged at my heartstrings. But thanks to a surprise discovery, the boy's mission may not be as hopeless as it seemed. Sigh. I love, love, love this book, and plan to share it with everyone I know, especially my students. Highly, highly recommended for the tender story of courage and friendship, and the absolutely gorgeous artwork. I sincerely hope that Logan S. Kline will be creating many more picture books in the future.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Two houses stand side by side: one is home to a dog, the other to a young girl. Though a fence divides them, girl and dog build a sweet and sturdy friendship rooted in make-believe…and are lonely no more. Paired with moving illustrations and based on a true story, this endearing tale from the author of I, Cosmo testifies to the transformative power of creativity and inter-species friendship.
REVIEW
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