July 1, 2023
A tiny black mouse named Flora tames a lion...well, a dandelion. Together, Flora and her best friend, Lion, spend their days playing and using their wild imaginations as round bumblebees with iridescent wings look on. But one day, Lion folds inward and unfurls as a "shimmering cloud of feathered silver." Distraught, Flora tries in vain to hold her friend together as Scarecrow advises her to "make a wish and let [Lion] go." Flora wishes for Lion. Seeking comfort in Scarecrow's pocket, she gathers golden acorns and snuggles to sleep while the world turns "white and still"...until one morning the field is once again bursting with bees and fluffy yellow dandelions. "And though they were not Lion," Flora understands that her old friend has granted her wish to see him again. Halliday's charming, free verse poetry is paced around Pixar-ish digital illustrations in both spots and spreads. Flora is endearingly fluffy, with oversized eyes and ears, and her field overflows with forget-me-nots, fiddleheads, and morning glories while the palette turns gently autumnal. In the right hands, this tale could be an ode to the changing seasons or a gentle introduction to grief; either way it will certainly encourage readers to snuggle up to sleep. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Sweetly soothing. (Picture book. 3-6)
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September 1, 2023
K-Gr 3-A whimsical picture book with engaging illustrations that tells the story of a unique friendship between a field mouse, dandelion, and scarecrow. The relationship between Flora (the mouse) and Lion (the dandelion) is portrayed with tenderness, allowing children to connect with the characters. When Lion begins to age and seemingly disappears, Scarecrow becomes a comfort for Flora and highlights the importance of cherishing memories. The illustrations are done in a way that allows readers to follow along even without the text, as the emotions are conveyed through facial expressions and the use of color on each page. The passing of seasons is made clear in the images, and older readers may notice Flora processing through varied stages of grief. The writing itself is sprinkled with just enough alliteration to feel fun to read without being overbearing. Although there are a couple of choice phrases that may be confusing or repetitive, the story will be an adorable addition to any school or public library collection. VERDICT Halliday skillfully weaves together themes of friendship, aging, loss, and resilience, creating a narrative that is heartwarming and empowering.-Jessica Clark
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