Blanket

This story is the world-renowned playwright's only work for children. His warmth and affectionate understanding of a child's prolonged need for a beloved object is charmingly reflected by drawings in two colors, black and pink, by Emily McCully.

An exceptional picture book with a beautifully written story that promotes positive family and self concepts, what more could you possibly ask for from a children's book.

Many children can relate to having a special "lovey," whether it's a blanket or toy. What I really liked about this story was that it's not just the blanket that's special -- it's the love within the family. Read it and see for yourself. :)

We eagerly look forward to more books illustrated by Mr. Gordon.

Tom Carney is thankfully not one of these. A regular columnist for a variety of magazines and newspapers, Carney transcends the norm in Sun Drenched Days: Two Blanket Nights. Yes, the book does surround the outdoor experiences involved in hunting and fishing, but it goes well beyond the norm of "me and Sam in a boat stories".

Carney wears his heart at the the end of his pen while introducing you to the wonders of woodcock dancing on the western skies, of brook trout from clear cool waters and the companions he has had the priviledge to enjoy these with. And it seems it is the comraderie that he relishes most.

When I interviewed Carney he told me that he considers his work as simply stories. They are much more than that. This collection is a love affair of all things wild-the sweet mustiness of autumn leaves and the smell of a wet dog, of camp cooking and star-filled skies. It is a collection of people and places that have helped him to grow in appreciation of time afield and of the fleeting time he has had to share with friends.

Readers from Michigan have probably heard of Tom Carney. And while this collection certainly is Michigan-based, it does go well beyond the Wolverine State boundry. Carney will make you laugh, cry and remember. While you certainly have not been with the people he has, you have been with others of their caliber. It is the memories that his stories will rekindle in you that are most important.

Carney's book is something to be consumed while sitting in an overstuffed chair next to a fire. An English setter curled by your feet would be a nice finishing touch.

What I find really amazing about the story is that this is no new idea. There have been a million movies and books about first loves. But some how Thompson executes this story of real life experience without being predictable and using cliches. And he doesn't just write about one type of love. This novel is about romantic love and brotherly love and spiritual love.

I don't think there is a single person in this world who can read this book and not feel connected to the experiences portrayed by Craig Thompson. And the amazment of it is that something so typical is made so not boring. This is one of those books that you read and read and when there isn't anymore to read you read it again.

It is a memoir about the author growing up in a conservative, religious family and his experiences and feelings. The book is so honest and full of feelings that it makes your heart break. I think because of the 1st person comic book layout, you're immediately drawn into the story.

This book would be great for reluctant readers who would probably think a big comic book is a cool read. Other students (and adults) would also enjoy it because of its simplicity and intensity that is lacking in many of the other coming of age books out there. I would recommend it to students who have expository writing projects to demonstrate both the different styles of writing and to give an exceptional model of a memoir.