February 2016

Wait  |  Antoinette Portis

The pages of the February BOTM recommendation contain only two little words: Hurry and Wait alternate from page to page in this lovely little picture book. No reason to add more text because the charming illustrations serve as the additional “words” needed move this story along.

How many times have you told your child to hurry? In this story, the mother needs to move along but the little boy needs to wait and see oh so many things — like ducks in the park, a construction site and even an ice cream truck. Mom wants to hurry but then she really wants to hurry because it starts to rain! Luckily for the mom, she finally gives in to her son and good thing...they both get to share the sight of a beautiful rainbow in the sky.

Many of my recommendations are borne from CHP reads. I read Wait to both the younger and older snack groups. Each book reading was welcomed with silence, mainly because the simple text and delightful illustrations kept the group’s interest. When the children saw the mom and son share the rainbow at the end the book, they were all so happy.

We live in such busy times, it is good to be reminded that all too often, good things come to those who wait. Slow down and relish the moment. (I am a fan of author/illustrator Antoinette Portis. I also recommend Froodle and Not a Box.)