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Kelly of Hazel Ridge Review by Dena Wood
By Robbyn Smith van FrankenhuyzenIllustrated by Gujsbert van Frankenhuyzen
Sleeping Bear Press
310 North Main Street, Suite 300
Chelsea, MI 48118
1-800-487-2323
http://sleepingbearpress.com//
Kelly of Hazel Ridge is the third volume in the Hazel Ridge series by Robbyn and Gujsbert van Grankenhuyzen. In this charming picture book, we follow Kelly, a fourth-grade girl struggling over what to write for a school assignment, as she spends a Saturday wandering the grounds of her home, Hazel Ridge Farm. As we walk and explore with Kelly, she introduces us to the many creatures and special hideaways that fill the farm. She shares how she, her sister, and her parents have worked to create a special sanctuary for both people and animals as she collects treasures for her "nature treasure box." Different spots on the farm remind her of raising orphaned animals, being caught alone and afraid in a blackberry bramble, and the guardian owl outside her window.
This book is absolutely delightful! I read it to my children aged 5, 7, and 9, and they all loved it. I have to admit that my children are nature lovers--in fact Kelly from Hazel Ridge could be my daughter's twin! But I think almost any child would love this book. The language includes a rich vocabulary, and yet it is written in a warm and friendly style authentic to the nine-year-old narrator. The beautiful illustrations evoke a sense of warmth and happiness with their vibrant colors and use of light.
I was most impressed with the way the author seems to effortlessly weave educational aspects into the book without detracting from the pure pleasure of the story. The adventures, animal stories, and experiences Kelly shares are sure to be of interest to any child. Tidbits of information on ecology, habitat, and animal life are peppered throughout the book. The last pages of the book are filled with illustrations of "Nature's Treasures" as well as instructions for making your own nature treasure box, ideas for what to put in it, and helpful tips. This book encourages children in developing a love of nature as well as a sense of responsibility in caring for it.
The Hazel Ridge Farm series is written by the owners of Hazel Ridge Farm, and it culls from their experiences there raising their two daughters, Heather and Kelly. The books do not need to be read in order, as this is the first in the series that I read. I certainly intend to find and read the others though!
Product review by Dena Wood, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, October 2006
