Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
Hurricane
Picture Book
For ages 5 to 8
Clarion, 1990 ISBN: 978-0395629741
A hurricane is on its way and George and his brother David are waiting to see what is going to happen next. Rain and wind lashes their home and David is worried about Hannibal, the family cat. Luckily Hannibal is a sensible animal and he comes home, eager to be where it is warm, dry, and safe.
In the evening George, David, and their parents sit around the fireplace. The power has gone out and there is nothing that they can do except to wait for the ferocious storm to blow itself out.
In the morning the boys discover that one of the big elm trees in their yard was blown down in the night. The tree fell into a neighbor's yard but luckily it did not cause any damage. George and David soon discover that there is something wonderful about having a downed tree right outside their front door.
As they read this book children will not only get a sense of what it is like to experience a hurricane but they will also be reminded of one very important childhood truth; that even the most innocuous object can become a fabulous plaything or playmate under the right circumstances.
This story with its glorious illustrations is entertaining and it also serves as a celebration of the power of the imagination of a child. In addition it explores the idea that something good can indeed come out a bad situation.
All in all Caldecott winner David Wiesner manages to incorporate a great deal into this very special picture book.
