Newfoundland has its share of unique and colourful birds. But a Grumpy Bird? And a Boo Hoo Bird?
Unless you are a fan of acclaimed Canadian children's author and illustrator Jeremy Tankard, you might think you'll need to dust off your binoculars for this unique sighting! But leave all your accessories at home; you'll need only your sense of humour and appreciation for exceptional art and design at this dynamic presentation.
Jeremy Tankard, born in Cape Town, South Africa, now makes his home in Toronto. This father of two is a talented artist whose work has been published in Time magazine, Fortune, The New York Times and The Boston Globe.
When Tankard decided to add children's book illustration to his portfolio, he sent his work to a few major publishers. They convinced him to try writing as well.
Less than a decade later, he has three children's picture books in print, the first of which, "Grumpy Bird," has been championed by children, parents, teachers and librarians the world over.
Making his picture book debut after waking up on the shady side of the nest, Bird realizes he won't be able to fly and downgrades to a stomping stroll. As you read the story and explore the delightful, vibrant illustrations, a feeling will be evoked. Even the most positive and cheerful among us remembers the feeling of an everything-is-crummy kind of day. And Bird brings it to life with a petulance and sarcasm that challenges every adorable, whiny two-year-old whose favourite word is "No!"
Bird is lucky to be surrounded by patient, optimistic friends and as the story unfolds, they manage to cajole him out of his dark demeanor.
"Grumpy Bird" is destined to become a Canadian classic. If you have children, you should pop into your local library and read it with them. Then, read "Boo Hoo Bird," released earlier this year, to see what happens when Bird gets a pretty bad bonk on the head.
Bird man cometh
During Canadian Children's Book Week (Nov. 14-21), Newfoundlanders are in store for some feathery fun when Jeremy Tankard tours the island. In addition to presentations at nine schools from Pasadena to St. John's, Tankard will make flying visits to four public libraries, reading and giving a live demonstration of his artistic prowess.
All ages are welcome to visit Newfoundland and Labrador Public Libraries for these free events, brought to you by the Canadian Children's Book Centre, with support from the Canada Council:
Bishop Falls Public Library today at 3:30 p.m.
Ross King Memorial Public Library (Mount Pearl) Thursday at 10:30 a.m.
A.C. Hunter Children's Library (St. John's) Friday at 11 a.m.
For more information, visit www.nlpl.ca and check out the events for November. For library locations and hours, call 737-2348.
'Grumpy Bird' lands at the library
"Grumpy Bird" By Jeremy Tankard Scholastic Books
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Published on
November 17, 2009
- Published on July 1, 2010
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Staff ~ The Telegram
Newfoundland has its share of unique and colourful birds. But a Grumpy Bird? And a Boo Hoo Bird?
Unless you are a fan of acclaimed Canadian children's author and illustrator Jeremy Tankard, you might think you'll need to dust off your binoculars for this unique sighting! But leave all your accessories at home; you'll need only your sense of humour and appreciation for exceptional art and design at this dynamic presentation.
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