Seasons For Stones – a timely picture book for all seasons

Have you taken up any new hobbies or activities since the pandemic began six months ago? Our household certainly has and, in most cases, it has been books that have started us on new adventures. Our new endeavor is rock painting inspired by

A SEASON FOR STONES

By Nikki Bergstresser (author) and Kelly O’Neill (illustrator)
Brandylane Publishers: 2020
Themes: Kindness, friendship, compassion
Setting: a neighborhood
Picture book ages 4-8

The story begins…

Crunch.

Tilly loved autumn and the feel of leaves beneath her feet. On her walk home from school, she passed her neighbor’s house. The yard had once been tidy and bursting with flowers, But now, it looked sad and lonely. Tilly had not seen Mrs. Miller outside lately, tending to her garden or feeding the birds. Tilly knew her neighbor was not well.

Synopsis:
Tilly’s concern for her neighbor prompts her to figure out practical ways to help. With her love of nature and words, she realizes that she can help and encourage her neighbor. When others see her actions, they also find ways to help.

Why you should add SEASONS FOR STONES to your bookshelf:

We are currently living in a season when many people are feeling the effects of isolation. SEASONS FOR STONES shows how children can reach out and care for others in simple but important ways. It also shows how acts of kindness have a way of spurring others to action.
This is a lovely story about inter-generational friendship. It is so great to see an example where young and old share the same values and interests.
The bright and kid-friendly illustrations show Tilly’s growth as a character as she realizes that she can make a difference.
Painting on stones is fun! Painting and hiding stones for others to find has become a popular activity. There are even stone painting Facebook groups. I’m excited to find a book that builds on this art form that everyone, young and old, can do.

Have you ever found a hidden painted stone? Have you ever painted and left stones for others to find?