Early morning rises. Silent steps and gumboots on.
The girl has done this many times.
Dad is waiting and together they share a hot
snack. A thermos is prepared, and they set off to greet the dawn.
Seagulls fly ahead of the car leading the way, which
is now, so familiar. Shadows move across the sky as the boat is pushed into the
water.
Nets are dropped containing the usual bait as the
wind lifts, and light breaks on the horizon.
More important than the catch, is the companionship
the two share every time they go out in their boat.
The greatest pleasure is gained in trying to identify
the shape of the shifting clouds. Each one can be seen as many things.
They sip and chew as they wait for the nets to
fill.
What will the two pull up?
This touching and exquisitely illustrated book is
propelled by the perfect text. Short and sharp, it moves quickly, allowing
the brilliance of each full-page illustration to shine.
I loved this story! It reflects the joys of family,
time spent together, and the pleasure of being in the moment.
Title: Cloudspotting
Author: Samantha Tidy
Illustrator: Susannah Crispe
Publisher: Windy Hollow, $27.95
Publication Date: 7 March 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780645518795
For ages: 5+
Type: Picture Book
