Description
by Sylvia Olsen with Ron Martin
Illustrated by Kasia Charko
Following on the heels of the much-lauded Yetsa’s Sweater, versatile author Sylvia Olsen again brings her storytelling gifts to picture book readers. Which Way Should I Go? is a moving story, based on the memories and the direction of Olsen’s friend Ron Martin, that handles a tender subject with a light and deft touch.
Joey is a happy Nuu-chah-nulth boy, eager to help and quick to see the bright side of things. But when he loses his beloved grandmother, the sun goes out in his world. Fortunately, she has left something of herself behind—a song, which keeps knocking on Joey’s heart, and a dance, which urges him to get up on his feet and choose again. Choosing was what their song was about, and Grandma’s lessons prove strong indeed. Joey chooses to remember Grandma with joy and to take up his daily life again with a spring in his step.
Illustrator Kasia Charko’s lively art is a song and a dance in itself. Joey’s good nature shines in his eyes; his sorrow is outlined in the slump of his shoulders. The forest setting, Grandma’s house—even the sun in the sky—are richly informed by West Coast artistic traditions, without sacrificing a joyous, childlike appeal.
All families, and especially those who have lost a loved one, will enjoy storytime with this beautiful, touching book.
32 pp • 8 x 10
ISBN 978-1-55039-214-2 • softcover • $10.95
full colour
