Stella, Fairy of the Forest

This is my grandson Sam's favorite of the 'Stella & Sam' series. I can't choose because I love them all. Even though he is 7 years old he still loves to have all these books read to him and I of course totally enjoy it right along with him.

Stella and her little brother Sam go to play in the forest. Sam has a lot of fears, but Stella, who is a know-it-all, dismisses them by reassuring Sam that bears sleep during the day, and snakes are too small to swallow people. The story is cute, but not always accurate. It has about 600 words.

Stella's back, with her self-assured manner and flaming red hair, and she's ready to take her little brother, Sam, on a forest adventure in search of fairies. And as they walk through the meadow filled with wild flowers and sheep, and cross the stream on stepping stones, Sam is filled with questions and thoughtful comments about the world around them, and as always Stella has all the answers. "Do butterflies eat butter?" asked Sam. "Yellow butterflies do," said Stella. "Then I guess blue butterflies eat pieces of sky," said Sam. And so it goes as they enter the forest filled with "big old trees." "Are they older than Grandma?" asked Sam. "Almost," said Stella. "They must be at least a hundred years old." "Is that why their skin is so wrinkled?" asked Sam. "That's not skin," said Stella. "That's bark." "Grandma's bark is much softer," said Sam. "Especially on her cheeks." The adventure continues as they watch and discuss forest animals, snakes, and the origin and growth of rocks, build a forest house out of ferns and branches, and watch for fairies..... No one captures the essence of small children, out for a day of imaginative fun and adventure quite like Marie-Louise Gay. Her gentle text is entertaining and engaging, and her ear for sibling dialogue and chatter is unrivaled. It's easy to believe that you're tagging along with Stella and Sam, and listening in on their conversations. Ms Gay's bright and expressive illustrations are captivating, and filled with joy, whimsy, and marvelous detail. Together word and art offer a feast for both the ears and eyes. Perfect for youngsters 3-7, Stella Fairy Of The Forest is a wonderful new addition to Ms Gay's Stella series. Read them all and enjoy!

Marie-Louis Gay's books about Sam and Stella are marvelous. This, their third adventure, begins when Sam asks Stella about fairies. Stella knows just where to find some. She leads Sam through meadows, across a stream and into a magical forest. This story is truly lovely especially in its treatment of the siblings' relationship. Ms. Gay's illustrations have a special quality particularly her depictions of the delightful red-head, Stella. Don't miss it!