Under a Prairie Sky: Book Review

Author: Anne Laurel Carter

Illustrators: Alan and Lea Daniel

Publisher: Orca Book Publications

ISBN: 1551432269

Ages: 6 to 8 (can be read aloud to younger children with explanations)

A ferocious storm is brewing over the Canadian prairie when a boy and his father realize the boy's younger brother is missing. The older boy, who dreams of one day becoming a Mountie, goes to look for his brother. He puts on a red coat, a Stetson hat, blue pants and a shiny pair of boots.

As the boy races across the prairie on his horse, he gets a glimpse of what life will be like as a Mountie. After much searching, he finds his brother catching frogs in a slough (a swampy area that's full of mud and water). Together, they race across the prairie, as black clouds and thunder and lighting chase close behind. The future Mountie and his brother reach home safely.

The future Mountie brushes and tends to his horse, then looks in on his younger brother, who is sleeping comfortably. For today, his job as rescuer is complete.

The beautiful water color illustrations in this book make it come alive for all who open its cover. The illustrators have captured the prairie's golden hues, as well as the darkness of the storm. They provide understanding of the lives of the characters with beautiful pictures of oil lamps, the wash basin and a tin drinking cup.

Wildlife includes a heron, a prairie dog and a coyote. The text is poetic, but may be a bit hard for children under six to understand. This delightful books brings the sights and sounds of the Canadian prairie to life in a fun and exciting tale that's filled with adventure--a great book for young readers who enjoy taking a wild ride with lots of adventure.

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