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As I looked through my children's pictures from when they were small, around 3 to 5 years old, I was filled with nostalgia. I remembered the evenings we spent reading together at bedtime—moments that I deeply miss now that they are teenagers. I reflected on the stories and the lessons they learned from those times, which inspired me to write my own stories. My hope is that other parents will also bond with their children during this precious time.
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Aria is a quiet, pensive, caring girl. Wandering through the dry forest, she discovers an old oak tree with a vibrating lantern glowing inside. In Joe Sarkic’s The Lantern of Whispering Leaves, this lantern will bring hope to the village, hope for some rain to fill the dry wells and nourish the dried-up land so crops can grow. But, only for those who listen, those who care, and those who show quiet respect for the light that glows within. At first, the villagers are noisy, demanding, and show only greed. But Aria convinces them with her quiet, caring manner. “If we listen and work together, the rain will come.” And, words of wisdom are convincing enough for all: “Light returns when you listen.”
Joe Sarkic’s picture book, The Lantern of Whispering Leaves, is a prophetic, carefully presented story, a parable that will warm the hearts of all ages with its glowing wisdom. The plot itself is a journey that will teach readers the power of listening, patience, empathy, and, most importantly, community. The author uses simple language to help young readers easily follow along. There is considerable dialogue to move the story forward. Each page includes a summary statement that gently presents the key themes. The illustrations are works of art that add a magical dimension to the story. At the end, there are some interactive questions and exercises to help young readers absorb all the important messages shared in the story. A simple, yet powerful tale that will encourage readers of all ages to listen quietly and learn from the world around us.
