THE SECRET OF SAYING THANKS

The author of Old Turtle and other modern fables presents a rather convoluted explanation of feeling thankful for all the blessings in life, including the wonders of nature as well as the comforts of home and family. The story follows a girl and her dog as she visits the country home of her grandparents, enjoying some contemplative time outdoors in the fall. The second-person text is structured around the discovery of a “secret” that can be discovered as one expresses thanks—a grateful attitude leads to happiness, rather than the other way around. The philosophical orientation is a little murky, as thanks are offered to natural objects (flowers, rocks, mountains) directly and prayer is mentioned in a rather general way, with no mention of God. Shed’s sun-dappled, impressionistic paintings create a believable persona for the main character, who is clearly both grateful and happy at her idyllic country sojourn with her golden retriever always by her side. (Picture book. 5-8)