Life

Starred review from April 10, 2017
Rylant (Creation) looks to the natural world for wisdom and consolation as Wenzel’s (They All Saw a Cat) lush, heavily worked artwork imagines a primordial Earth with few signs of human existence. “Life begins small,” Rylant opens; among bare hills, a lone plant sprouts from red earth. “Then it grows.” A fantastic gathering of wild animals and birds looks out at readers expectantly. “Ask any animal on earth, what do you love about life?” Each animal has its own answer (“The hawk will say sky”), and its distinctive nature and perception determine the way it sees the world, just as ours do. Difficulties appear and fade, and when low moments come, “trust the rabbit in the field and the deer who crosses your path.” Animals are not just wise: twin vignettes of an eager dog and a wide-eyed cat remind readers that “in every corner of the world, there is something to love.” Readers in search of inspiration that does not need to be taken on faith will find it in Rylant’s message that to live is to grow. All ages. Agent: Steven Malk, Writers House.

Narrator John McDonough's resonant voice eloquently expands the observations that award-winning author Cynthia Rylant shares with young listeners in her tribute to the natural world. Listeners will hear about the small beginnings of life, the myriad things to love and protect in every habitat on earth, the circular nature of life, and the importance of waking up and embracing each new day. The author encourages children to imagine day and night, storm and calm, and the inner worlds of each of the creatures one sees while exploring nature. McDonough is majestically leisurely in his delivery, providing long pauses for contemplation and appreciation of Rylant's imagery. If available, listeners will also relish Brendan Wenzel's illustrations. A.R. � AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine