Don’t Look Back!

Just in time to set the scene for Halloween, here is a book to engage young trick or treaters multiple times.

ON A WINDY NIGHT by Nancy Raines Day, illustrated by George Bates, Abrams BFYR 2010

This rhyming picture book captures attention on many levels.

Imagination.
Art and text combine to keep the mood somber, dark, and spooky, BUT cloud pictures in the sky also provide a good counterpoint to the spookiness.

Drama.
The refrain grows louder with each recitation and soon the listeners are chanting along. Totally engaging!

"Clicklety-clack, bones in a sack. They could be yours--if you look back."

Scary, but not too much.
This is like riding a roller coaster while holding Dad’s hand. Your heart races, but you know, deep down, you will survive to beg, “Read it again!”

The author has surely read zillions of books to children, including her daughter who grew up to become a children’s librarian. On her website, www.nancyrainesday.com, the author lists tips to make Halloween less scary here.

I can’t wait to share On a Windy Night with a group of wiggly pre-schoolers.