One of the most glorious aspects of our summer here at Grandma and Papa's is the chance for the girls to get in on some country living. Well, sorta. We're on two acres of beautiful land outside of an impossibly small town in Oklahoma, and before temperatures made their annual ascent into the "dangerous" category, we spent many mornings and quite a few evenings going "on safari" in the backyard.
Dacey's favorite discovery so far has been Mr. Turtle. While the various beetles and spiders and grasshoppers lost their novelty fairly quickly, the elusive Mr. Turtle who makes his home somewhere under the deck here has proved to be far more fascinating. Oh, how we've been thrilled when Mr. Turtle makes one of his rare appearances. And, oh, the conversations that have been ignited by his presence. (She's three and a half, so you can just imagine.)
Our furlough here is about to come to an end, and so it was serendipitously great timing that a few weeks ago I got the opportunity to receive and review a copy of the newly released Templeton Turtle Goes Exploring, written by Ron Pridmore and illustrated by Michele-lee Phelan.
Templeton Turtle Goes Exploring is the story of teeny-tiny newly hatched Templeton who simply cannot wait to go on his first adventure - an exploration around the pond where he and his mama turtle make their home. In gorgeous and stunning detail, Michele-lee Phelan creates a visual feast that will delight children and adults alike. With illustrations that are rich in brilliance and depth, she brings this little pond community and Pridmore's sweet little Templeton to life.
The story of Templeton is charming, uncomplicated, and universal in the truth it affirms. Being a little turtle in a big pond is an experience to which most everyone can relate. What I truly love about this book is that the story can act as a springboard for communicating with children on a variety of matters of enduring importance: the way animals interact with and depend upon each other in a community of nature; why it's important to have a community to support and encourage you (and how to support and encourage others!); why it's sometimes frightening to go on an adventure, but almost always worth the risk; and (particularly timely for us) how it can sometimes be scary to meet new friends.
I was also especially impressed by author Ron Pridmore's vision of creating literature for children that inspires and motivates more time interacting with nature and less time plugged in to media. As you may have guessed, this is near to my crunchy heart as well.
Templeton Turtle Goes Exploring would be a darling addition to any home or classroom library. Want a chance to win a copy to add to your collection? The lovely team promoting this book sent me not one, but two copies to give to my wonderful readers! To enter for a chance to win one for your little turtle, just leave a comment on this post before August 3rd. That's it! I'll announce the winner on August 5th. Good luck and happy reading!
