On the Hill

Camille lives on one side of the hill, and Franzi lives on the other, but neither one knows that the other is there. They both love their own little houses and all of their animals, but something is missing. So one day Camille and Franzi each set off around the hill in search of someone with whom to dance, to share interesting conversations, and to tell stories at bedtime.
Readers of all ages will find good company in this simple, charming tale of finding love and making room for it to grow.

Publishers Weekly

Set against an alpine backdrop, this modest tale of love overcoming obstacles radiates a simple charm through Jahn-Clough's (My Friend and I) trademark fine black line and color wash illustrations. Camille and Franzi, two Old World-looking peasants, live on opposite sides of a hill, not knowing the other exists but each desiring company. The text cleverly mirrors each of the characters' thoughts: "Camille loved her little house and all of her animals. But the animals wouldn't dance with her or carry on interesting conversations.... Franzi loved his little house and all of his animals.... But the animals wouldn't sing with him or tell him stories at bedtime." Repetition in the straightforward text underscores the simplicity of this universal human experience and complements the na ve paintings. An abundance of curvy lines, from the characters' sausage-like noses (which match their similarly shaped boots) to the bell-shaped roofs of their humble abodes, provides a comfy feel as well as a subtle note of humor. Loosely applied daubs of color and large brushstrokes add a welcome abstract touch. The warm oranges and yellows reflect the story's cheerful timbre as the two find each other and then creatively solve the problem of how to coexist comfortably with their animal broods. The book's small trim size emphasizes the couple's contented coziness at story's end. Ages 4-8. (Mar.) Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

Lisa Jahn-Clough has written and illustrated a number of books for young children, including Alicia Has a Bad Day, My Friend and I, Missing Molly, Simon and Molly Plus Hester, and On the Hill, as well as her debut young adult novel Country Girl, City Girl. She is the chair of the illustration program at Maine College of Art and also teaches at the Vermont College Writing for Children and Young Adults program. She lives in Portland, Maine.