Song for Papa Crow

Written and Illustrated by Marit Menzin

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This above all: to thine own self be true. This gently told tale reminds us of the wisdom of Shakespeare’s words as it celebrates both diversity and individuality.

Children are exposed to so many conflicting opinions. In today’s fast-moving, ultra-competitive world, the mantra of success seems to be to blindly follow the more successful person. Marit Menzin’s tale reminds of of the dangers of going down that path, without being overly preachy or didactic.

Little Crow is the outsider who wants to fit in. Don’t we all know that story? Even a second grade reader would understand that desire. Papa Crow’s encouragement is not good enough, for he is Papa, and Papas and Mamas always say good things. Little Crow wants endorsement from the other birds. Through fortunate circumstance he is given a magic seed that allows him to sing like the mockingbird, mimicking the sounds of the other birds.

Little Crow is in very heaven. “Sing with us,” he is invited.

“He closed his eyes and sang with the birds like never before. As the birds sang, a large shadow flew overhead.”

Danger threatens. The other birds see the hawk and take off, with nary a thought of warning their new-found singing partner. When Little Crow opens his eyes he sees that he is all alone, and a hawk is flying straight at him.

It is Papa who comes to his rescue, and in the process Little Crow learns the most valuable lesson of all. He sings with Papa, and does not care that the other birds think their song is out of tune.

The birds and their calls are accurately depicted. Beautiful collage illustrations and the fun facts at the end of the book make it a valuable addition to any reading list, and a great gift to loving Papas everywhere.

Additional Resources:

Birds of North America:  http://www.birds-of-north-america.net/

Author Website:  http://www.maritmenzin.com/index.asp

  • Papa CrowTitle: Song for Papa Crow
  • Author: Marit Menzin
  • Illustrator: Marit Menzin
  • Publisher: Schiffer Publishing, Ltd
  • Reviewer: Anjali Amit
  • Hardback:  28 pages
  • ISBN: 978-0-7643-4131-1
  • Genre: Picture Book

One comment

  1. Marit Menzin says:

    Thank you very much for taking the time to review my book! I wish you a Happy Holiday Season and a Wonderful New Year!

    Sincerely,

    Marit

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