Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
A Picnic in October
Illustrator: Nancy Carpenter
Picture Book
For ages 6 to 8
Voyager Books, 2004 ISBN: 978-0152050658
Tony and his family are going to Liberty Island for a birthday party. It is cold and windy and Tony is inclined to think that the whole thing is "dumb." But, this is what Grandma wants and as it is important to her the family makes this journey every October no matter how cold it is.
For Grandma Lady Liberty represents so much for Grandma was one of the thousands of people who emigrated from Italy to the United States, seeking a new life in the "land of opportunity." That is why she wants to celebrate the statue’s birthday, to make the day a special one for her family.
It is only when Tony meets some newcomers to America, a family for whom Lady Liberty means a great deal, right now and in the present, that he finally understands what all the fuss is about.
A story about discovery and understanding, Eve Bunting has yet again created a very powerful and moving book that will resonate with many Americans.
