Veronique Massenot

In my opinion this is a really good book. It has a heavy plot, which has components of death and fear from the tsunami, or great wave. Some students wouldn't be able to handle this and it would evoke to much negative emotion. This book demonstrates how crazy the weather can be, students who have dealt with a hurricane, tornado or other wild weather could relate on a deeper level. The story takes place in a Japanese fishing town, where they don't have many resources to escape the weather. Many people die as a result of the tsunami but the boy in the story uses his loss as a reason to keep the family finishing business and work in the ocean. The moral is about respecting nature, being prepared and following your calling.… (altro)

One of artist Marc Chagall's most enduring paintings is the basis for this beautifully crafted children's book that tells an enchanting story.This book tells the story of the postman Zephyr, who lives in a little blue village in the mountains where nothing ever changes. A dreamer hoping for adventures, he travels on a cloud, embarking on a fantastic airborne journey that takes him to distant and colorful lands. Eventually Zephyr falls to earth and meets a beautiful young woman. Together they return to the postman's home village which is now transformed in Zephyr's eyes and begin their exciting new life together. Inspired by Chagall's masterpiece, a world of color and imagination awaits the readers of this book. Paintings based on Chagall's striking palette and elegant lines help tell a simple yet poetic story. The book includes a gorgeous reproduction of Chagall's masterpiece "Les Mariés de la Tour Eiffel" ("The Brideand Groom of the Eiffel Tower"), illustrating a journey of words and pictures, and introducing young readers to the work of one of the most popular artists of the twentieth century.… (altro)