Synopses & Reviews
How will Gregory find his way back to Dad?Swish-swoosh . . . Gregory draws a lion in the sand. "Don't go in the water, and don't leave Sandy," warns Dad. But the sandy lion grows a tail that gets longer and longerand soon Gregory is lost on the beach. This wonderful read-aloud book brings to life a summer experience that is all too familiar for young children. Karen Williams's rhythmic text has been paired with Floyd Cooper's brilliant illustrations, revealing the trip down the beach entirely from a child's point of view. A gentle father-son bond is shown in both text and art, reassuring young readers even as they share in Greg's moment of worry at finding himself lost and alone.
Review
* "Scoop up this tale for its strength as a unique beach story and for its warm portrayal of an African-American son and father enjoying the outdoors." --Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Review
"Cooper does an outstanding job of using perspective to underscore the immensity of the beach and sea. ... A wonderful summer tale to share one-on-one or with a group."--School Library Journal
Review
"A lovely collaboration suited for every collection." --Booklist
Review
* "A charming tale of creativity and discovery." --School Library Journal, starred review
About the Author
Karen Lynn Williams is the author of over a dozen books for children, including the beloved titles
Galimoto and recent award-winners such as
Four Feet, Two Sandals and
Circles of Hope. Her books often feature children in developing countries, and she has lived and worked in both Africa and Haiti. Ms. Williams lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Floyd Cooper is the winner of the 2009 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award for The Blacker the Berry by Joyce Carol Thomas. He is the illustrator of over sixty books for children, including Becoming Billie Holiday by Carol Boston Weatherford and Miss Crandall's School for Young Ladies and Little Misses of Color by Elizabeth Alexander and Marilyn Nelson. He lives in Easton, Pennsylvania.