Amber on the Mountain

This is a beautifully written picture book -- one of my very favorites ever. The language is so very rich, and the girls' personality and emotions come through so clearly in just a few lines. For younger children, it gives a glimpse of what independence and hard work can do. For older children, there's the whole world of rural Appalachia in the not-too-distant past -- a place that was so cut off from the technological advances of the rest of the world. I love the turns of phrase that are so evocative of the lyrical way of speaking that you can still hear from some of the older people from this area... Holding a book "like a fine and breakable cup", being "drenched" with a child's words that "come down like spring rain"...

Enhanced with subtle rich oil paintings, "Amber on the Mountain" is the story of a girl who wants to learn. Amber is a mountain girl who has no one to teach her. And then, Anna arrives - a girl her own age whose father is going to build a new road. Although Anna has to leave the mountain before she can teach Amber everything she wishes, Amber perseveres in her quest to learn. This charming story teaches the value of education, friendship, and the importance of working for what you want.

Amber on the Mountain is a beautifully written and illustrated childrens book. The tale itself draws young readers into the high mountains where Amber lives.Robert Duncan's nature paintings are realistic and breathtaking.A simple, secluded mountain family with a darling young daughter who befriends a newcomer. A heartwarming story for the eyes and ears.Amber on the Mountain would be a wonderful gift for a young reader. Pair this book with Tony Johnston and Lloyd Bloom's ' Yonder ' and you'll have an excellent gift.

This is a really special book. It is all about learning to read and write and why someone might want to do so. The pictures are among the best I've seen in any children's book. The story is well told. It's also a lovely story about friendship and giving. For a kindergartener or first grader learning to read and write it is particularly appropriate.

This book was wonderful. If you have never seen paintings by Robert Duncan, you have to buy this. His illustrations are incredible.