Se Você Quiser Ver Uma Baleia (2013) - Plot & Excerpts
Patience is the theme of this adorable children’s book. It’s about a little boy who wants to see a whale. He tells us all the ways to stay focused on the task of seeing a whale. He instructs us that you shouldn’t sit in a chair that’s too comfy or have a blanket that’s too soft or you might fall asleep. Don’t be distracted by pelicans, passing ships, pirates, clouds, and bugs in the grass because none of these are whales. The illustrations were made with wood blocks that the author created herself and the colors are light and remind one of the ocean and beach. This book was on my Mock Newbery club shortlist for the 2014 Newbery award. The big day for this years Newbery is January 27 and I've been thoroughly enjoying the best of children's literature published in 2013. This book is a lovely poem with charming illustrations. For what it is, it is perfect. I still lean toward a different type of book for the award However, officially the Newbery award is for "the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children". This book is short and simple, but beautifully well done and yes, it's distinguished. It will be interesting to see what happens this year. My votes were for #1 - Far, Far Away #2 - Counting By Sevens and #3 - Doll Bones, though after some thought I'd now put The True Blue Scouts of Sugar Man Swamp at either 2 or 3 and take Doll Bones off the list. I loved them all though and it is hard to choose!
What do You think about Se Você Quiser Ver Uma Baleia (2013)?
Calming prose, but I don't feel this would work for all ages.
—Ramm83
Nice illustrations but the story is a little weak.
—Cat
