The TALE: Tehachapi Art, Literature and Entertainment
Wouldn't it be wonderful to see the world with new eyes? As a baby grows and learns, it sees the world for the first time. The baby explores all the simple wonders that we now take for granted as we whiz right by. We most likely no longer marvel at our own shadow, the leaf of a tree, a piece of straw, how the breeze feels so soft, how fuzzy soft a bee looks. Living here for a time sadly takes the wonder edge off of our daily lives.
If you are lucky to have a baby in your life, you may be reminded of the simplest beauty as the baby walks adults through their first time experiences. Choosing to take the time, parents and others can see the world through the baby's eye. What a privilege! Those without a baby could use the thoughtful and insightful picture book by Lane Smith in "Stickler Loves the World."
Stickler is what could be thought of as a strange creature that lives in the part of the forest where shadow meets tree. With multiple eyes and sometimes more than the average number of legs and arms, Stickler is an enthusiast of sticks especially and then everything else in the world. From bats to stones to weepy trees, Stickler rejoices. When he meets what he believes is a space stranger in this world, but in reality is a crow with an empty pea can on his head, Stickler takes the creature on a tour of the "wonders of my planet." The reader goes too and sees the world through Stickler's eyes. The sun, flowers, oceans and fish, with special light shining on all the wonders passed each day without being noticed.
Their journey is a reminder to us all that we are constantly surrounded by a world of wonders and a sky full of stars to wish upon. As we share our homes and tables in thanksgiving with family and friends, may we wish to see these wonders each and every day with fresh and new eyes. We live in a precious, beautiful, awe inspiring world!
Good Books. Good reading.
*Midge Lyn'dee is a fictional character used for the purpose of entertainment though the reviews are real and sincere.