Snail's Ark

Snail's Ark

Picture book
I have never before seen such an amazing take on the Noah's Ark
story as Snail's Ark. Irene Latham's text turns the narrative into a
lesson on love brave enough to risk all to save a friend. The
narrator is a creature most of us overlook. Mehrdokht Amini's lively
collage like illustrations in stormy hues pull their weight in
conveying the mood of the story.
"Esther woke early.
Her antlers waved.
The air was sharp,
Like before a storm.
Something was happening,
Something big."
Esther the snail awakes to a very scary day. Land animals are
stampeding. Her first impulse is to hide so as not to be crushed by
an elephant. But as she sees the air and river creatures fleeing
toward a big boat she realizes she too must get to safety...
...but not without her good friend, Solomon.
Young readers and listeners will find the tale engaging and the
ending satisfying. Reading out loud adults will enjoy all the
opportunities for embellishing the words that the book offers.
And there is a message for adults. A world of COVID and climate
change can feel like a gathering storm with slim chances of survival.
What are we doing to help get our fellow humans to safety in these
terrifying times? Can we be brave like Esther?
On a purrrsonal note, donating blood can be a great way of helping
others get on the safety Arc. Last week UMaine had a very successful
Red Cross blood drive. We got a lot of donors. I volunteered in
canteen both days talking to people, serving them pizza, making sure
they were feeling OK, and encouraging the other volunteers. It didn't
feel like work--more like hosting a party. I was talking to people,
showing pictures of Tobago (everyone loves Tobago), eating pizza and
snacks, and wearing my cat shirts, skinny leg jeans, and jewelery with
no uniform covering up my style. What's not to like? We also did
something new. Since it was close to Valentines Day I made a really
big card for the Red Cross nurses (who never suspected a thing even
though they stopped by to get pizza) and got donors and other
volunteers to sign. People were so enthusiastic about signing. And
the nurses love their card. They're going to put it up in their
office. (Jules)
Well of course hoomans love me. I iz a gorgeous girl. (Tobago)
A great big shout out goes out to all the nurses, donors, fellow
volunteers, and organizers who made the event come together to be a
rousing success.
Tobago and Jules Hathaway


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