Autumn Story

I am reading the book as an adult, and I find it enchanting. A whimsical retreat, beckoning for me to take off my adult shoes, to gather berries and nuts, and store them for the brambly hedge winter. I was relieved that Primrose was rescued by her caring fellow mice, who didn't give up, and lovingly put to bed by her mouse mother, with a delightfully illustrated cup of acorn coffee.

I love the illustrations in this book! Probably my favorite part. The story is cute, too (a little mouse who gets lost and the search party sent out for her). It's nothing outstanding, but cute enough, and the detailed pictures are sure to delight "visual readers" It definitely has that "classic children's book" feel to it.

I loved this book as a child and still have the original printing which I read to my boys. My 7 year old especially loves it. This story follows Primrose Woodmouse one evening as she wanders into the woods. At the end, evening falls and the illustrations turn eerily enchanting. This is one of those books that children as well as parents will enjoy. I look forward to finally completing my Brambly Hedge collection for my children.

There really isn't a lot of quality books about the Fall, which is a shame since it is such a lovely season. Kill Barklem books about Brambley Hedge are wonderful little tales, filled with detailed drwaings about the little community of mice. Winter is just around the corner and the harvest is not complete. crops The mice rush to collect the rest of their crops before the rain begins. The wealthy Lord Woodmouse's daughter tries to help out in earnest but has wandered into the Woods. Now she is lost and scared, and it is after dark. Thrilling little tale that is worth it for the artwork alone.

First published in 1980, Autumn Story follows Lord Woodmouse's daughter through her adventures exploring the delights of autumn harvest in the woods, until she realizes she is lost. As always, remarkable illustrations of blackberry brambles and fauna seen only by tiny folk bring both authenticity and charm.