  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 11/01/2016 In this allegory about conservation, man’s destruction of the environment, and the consequences of one’s actions, a giant lives in a huge forest—a virtual paradise heavily populated with flora and fauna. Since giants are natural-born destroyers, he systematically levels the forest, scaring away all of the animals and creating an extremely barren landscape devoid of life. Without the company of any form of living being, the giant has a lonely existence—until a songbird happens by. When the bird disappears, the giant, alone again, realizes the error of his ways and works to replenish the desecrated landscape in the hope that the bird and others will return. The forest thrives, many animals—including the bird—return, and the giant isn’t lonely anymore. Softly colored acrylic, watercolor, and colored-pencil illustrations depict the giant as a big, not-unappealing bald guy. His rampages are downplayed, and most frames show his kinder, gentler side. Pleasant, to the point, and an easy way to get a conversation about some of life’s issues underway. - Copyright 2016 Booklist. School Library Journal - 11/01/2016 PreS-Gr 2—When a giant's destructive behavior destroys the natural habitat of the forest animals, he finds himself alone, with only a caged yellow bird to keep him company. "Now you can sing to me whenever I want," he says. The sadness of the bird soon matches the sadness of the giant. Apologies are given and accepted, and after many years, the giant rebuilds not only his home but also the home of all the animals. Ambrose's barefooted giant resembles a tall, husky man. His clothes are neat, and he likes to drink tea and carve wooden animals. The acrylic, watercolor, and colored pencil illustrations, which show how the giant uses his strength in a positive way to help others, reinforce the idea that when we are not aware of what we are doing, the consequences can be long-lasting. VERDICT It's wonderful to see the friendlier side of a giant character. A fun addition.—Tanya Boudreau, Cold Lake Public Library, Alta. - Copyright 2016 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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