Loon Chase

by: Jean Heilprin Diehl; Illustrated by Kathryn Freeman

Published by: Sylvan Dell Publishing

Reviewed by Brenda A. Snodgrass

This picture book tells the story of a young boy, his mother and their family dog, Miles.

They are all out on a canoeing trip in search of a spot to pick blueberries. Miles jumps in the water and swims alongside their canoe. They come upon an adult loon with its two babies. Miles swims ahead after seeing the birds in the water because he is curious.

I tossed the berries I had in my hand into the bucket. We jabbed our paddles onto the rocks to push off. We had to stop him. Miles was our family pet. He played ball, slept on a dog bed and ate out of a bowl, but when he saw a bird, something came over him. He had never been close to catching one in our yard. These loons were on the water though--and two of them were babies! (pg 6 of 32)

The story then explains how the other bird parent had returned to its family and when Miles got to close, the bird spread its large wings and danced on the water, creating a fierce demonstration for Miles. Miles returned to where his family was frantically paddling towards the confrontation.

Following the story is a section on fun facts on loons, loons in Native American culture, and craft instructions with sample pieces to use for the construction of a loon mask.

The Loon Chase story is enhanced by the detailed pastel renderings illustrated by Kathryn Freeman. This book serves as a combination of a picture book and a school textbook, a technique pioneered by Sylvan Dell Publishing, who calls these books "For Creative Minds." This is an idea that will change teaching and students perceptions of learning.

Armchair Interview says: Sylvan Dell has again provided an interesting story and wonderful added information at the end.

Author's Web site: http://www.sylvandellpublishing.com/loon