Farfallina and Marcel

I came across this gentle book while shopping for gifts for my daughter's 6th birthday. This is a book about friendship and that is a very important subject to kindergarteners. I felt the author approached the subject in a beautiful and touching way, showing how friendship can endure through the many changes that life will bring. I can't wait to read the book to my daughter. I plan on buying more copies to give to my friends, too.

Holly Keller's story of growing up and changing is a fantastic story wrapped in beautiful watercolor illustrations. She weaves the story of everlasting friendship that we all long for and cherish in a charming and simple way. Keller's accomplishments include more than 30 books that she has written with "as many illustrated (that were) written by other people." It's easy to see why she has accomplished so much. I love this book. Keller's story opens with little Farfallina, a caterpillar, munching on a leaf during a gentle spring rain. Her munching disturbs a handsome gosling that quickly befriends the caterpillar. Despite the fact that they make an unlikely pair, they become the warmest of friends. Their friendship is rocked by separation however when one day Farfallina must rest. For weeks she is gone and Marcel realizes that he must grow up without her. A happy reunion finds them still fast friends despite the growth and change each has had to face. The illustrations in this book are fantastic. Kellers use of watercolors, is alive with bold vibrant colors that capture the attention of any reader. Her pictures are incredibly cute and resemble the sweet friendship Marcel and Farfallina share. Keller's illustrations encourage readers to peruse each page liesurely. I have always loved finding hidden pictures, and although Keller does not necessarily intend this, children can look for Farfallina's cocoon in the tree tops or note the changes in Marcel's feathers. Without the pictures, the story wouldn't be the same. I look forward to sharing this book with little ones during story time at the public library. Allowing the children the opportunity to visualize the colorful pictures as this heartwarming story is told will truly be a pleasure. I hope that they enjoy the story as much as I have. I've added it to my wish list and look forward to giving a second copy to my nieces.

I used this with my class (3-5 year olds) and they sat so still, they really loved the book. The story is heartwarming and the illustrations make you love the characters.

I teach a class of 3 to 5 year olds and I found this book as a supplement to my "Growing" unit. My class sat so still (I didn't know they could sit so still!) and it gave me the opportunity to launch into my "growing" unit! Fabulous book, beautiful pictures, gently touches upon growing and changing.

Lovely story and pictures. The author has made such a wonderfully reassuring book for children. And it's funny! It's our new bedtime reading requirement.