Recommended for Grade 1-3

The power and simple beauty of sunshine are eloquently evoked in this charming tale about the long-awaited arrival of spring. A young Norwegian girl describes the long, dark winter days, known as the murketiden, and confesses her yearning for the return of the sun. Her mother also finds the long winter oppressive, though her father seems to fare somewhat better. As the darkness drags on, however, even he begins to feel the strain. It is then that the child succeeds in convincing her family to follow the footsteps of a legendary girl and climb the nearby Mount Gausta in search of the sun. As the family trudges upward, they meet friends and neighbors, all of whom gather at the mountain pass to welcome the bright light. Captivating artwork illuminates the text. Using colors and techniques reminiscent of Ed Young's work, as well as more defined and detailed drawings, Emberley captures the feel of both the cold, gray "murky time" and the brilliant, clear sunshine. The illustrations reflect the warm affection among family members and place the story firmly in its cultural context. A most welcome seasonal selection.
Lisa Dennis, The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.