Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
This sensitive wildlife portrait is, on one level, a depiction of the strong lifelong bonds formed by Canada geese; on another, it's a full-on love story. Precisely drafted mixed-media illustrations in delicate tints by Hunter (The Den That Octopus Built) deepen the romance. "Here is how he won her over," Nargi (The Honeybee Man) opens. "He was the best dancer with the most powerful moves. He hissed loudly and bravely." A female goose in cattails watches the male's display--wings outstretched, beak open. Vignettes show their courtship, nest ("The world was the two of them"), clutch of eggs, the goslings they raise, and their annual trip south. Then unforeseen catastrophe puts an end to their partnership, and the remaining goose grieves, refusing to migrate south with other geese and spending the winter alone by the pond ("The world was just her now"). Little by little, though, she emerges from mourning and begins again. Pages describing the goose's despair hit hard in this work about how grief can diminish and life can carry on, for geese as well as for humans. More about the species concludes. Ages 4--8. Author's agent: Essie White, Storm Literary. Illustrator's agent: Rosemary Stimola, Stimola Literary. (Mar.)
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Review by School Library Journal Review
K-Gr 3--This lyrical and poignant picture book invites readers to witness the tender and fact-based story of two Canadian geese. From their graceful courtship to raising a family of six chicks, their bond unfolds against the changing seasons. The geese raise their chicks together and guide them in learning to fly. When the illness claims one goose, its partner must navigate life alone--a journey of resilience, healing, and renewal as a new partner eventually appears. Hunter's scenes blend intricate detail with rich textures. The geese's courtship dances and family moments are depicted with warmth, and the emotional weight of loss is conveyed in somber tones. From sprawling skies to serene waters, every page is a visual celebration of the natural world complementing the text. This book has emotional depth and educational value as it blends a moving narrative with fascinating scientific details. It is ideal for story time or STEM-related discussions. VERDICT By introducing readers to themes of love and loss while fostering an appreciation for wildlife, this stunning book is sure to inspire curiosity and empathy.--Susan McClellan
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
A Canada goose experiences love, loss, and, once more, joy. A male goose courts a female. The two become inseparable, making a nest, raising goslings, migrating with their flock, and returning again and again to the same spot to rear their young over the years. But one day, the male goose starts to fade. He dies, and his mate remains behind, alone, when the rest of the flock flies south for the winter. As the seasons pass, she slowly starts to engage with the world again and finds a new and different chance at love. Realistic illustrations and simple yet elegant text keep the story grounded. Rooting her work in the everyday habits and behavior of Canada geese, Nargi never anthropomorphizes or veers toward the overly sentimental; the female goose's emotions feel well earned. Though the death of the male is understated, it rings especially true, as do the portrayals of the female waiting and watching other animals returning in the spring. Nargi and Hunter offer a gentle but genuine depiction of loss and recovery. Wrapping up with backmatter containing further information on Canada geese, this is a clear, engaging, and empathetic introduction to these animals. An effective and moving meditation on grief and hope.(Picture book. 5-9) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
