Synopsis
A snowy day brings many fun surprises
Children's Literature
One morning, Joan and her brother Ben jump out of bed with eager excitement to see the winter's first snow. Joan exclaims that she is going to show her brother a snow surprise. So, she gathers a few things in her coat pocket and runs out the door with their dog, Sport. Joan rolls three large snowballs and assembles a snowman. Sport gathers sticks for the arms, and Joan attaches bowls of apples, crusts, nuts, and corn for the animals to enjoy. When Joan is satisfied with her surprise, she runs in to get her brother. But, Sport smells trouble. In a flash, all of the animals of the forest converge on the treats and smash the snowman surprise. Joan is upset, nearly to tears, but Ben claps with excitement. The snowman has turned into what looks like a snow mouse. In the end, it is Joan who is surprised. This is a delightful story for very beginning readers. The last two pages contain a "meet the author" section and several interactive questions to encourage discussion. Reviewer: Charles E. Kreinbucher