Cynthia Rylant

Cynthia Rylant and Barry Moser both grew up in Appalachia. Together, author and illustrator present us with a gentle yet poignant picture, in words and images, of the people of Appalachia--their homes, food, dogs, surroundings, and views of the world.

Somehow, this book is still magical even though I'm reading it in March when Spring is taunting us here in Alaska. I love the way Rylant describes different types of snow:

"The best snow is the snow that comes softly in the night, like a shy friend afraid to knock, so she thinks she'll just wait in the yard until you see her. This is the snow that brings you peace."

Gorgeous illustrations enhance the story, and make you feel all warm and cozy.

"In November, at winter's gate, the stars are brittle. The sun is a sometimes friend. And the world has tucked her children in, with a kiss on their heads, till spring."

This book is about Henry and Mudge, and their friend Annie getting a new pet. I think that this book would be good for early reading age kids, as it is easy to read, and they would feel accomplished being able to read it themselves.