FICTION

The Old Boat

by Jarrett Pumphrey (text) & illus. by Jerome Pumphrey
Norton. Mar. 2021. 56p. Tr $17.95. ISBN 9781324005179.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 2–“Off a small island, an old boat rode the tide.” In minimal text and slowly evolving illustrations readers will experience the passage of time and the wonder of the coastline, open water, and marine life. In a distinctive illustrative style with double-page spreads in a warm and energetic palette the story of generations of fisher-folk is told. The passage of time is rendered effectively page by page and the subtle and not-so-subtle changes will draw inquisitive readers in for closer inspection. While this would make a great companion to the Pumphreys’s much-lauded debut title The Old Truck, this title as a stand-alone will be useful in environmental units and will engage students as they examine the art and notice the impact humans can make, for the positive or the negative, on the environment.
VERDICT A melancholy call to an appreciation of nature and a call to action toward stewardship of the natural world on shore and off.
Reviewed by John Scott, Friends Sch. of Baltimore , Jun 01, 2021

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BOOKS

Noisy Christmas: My First Touch and Feel Sound Book
by Cox, Hettie
BOOKS

Five Sparkling Snowmen: A Rhyming Count Down Christmas Board Book
by Edwards, Nicola
BOOKS

A Magical Christmas: A Padded Christmas Story Book
by Freedman, Claire
BOOKS

Night Night, Sleepy Elves: A Lift-the-Flap Bedtime Christmas Book
by Wood, Selina
BOOKS

Love Is My Favorite Color
by Laden, Nina
BOOKS

Harriet’s Reflections
by Kadi, Marion
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?