Andrea Debbink

This book is beautifully illustrated. Sophie is a little girl who has been brave for a long time. But one day, in the woods, she sees a wolf, and is afraid. Her fear builds until it comes pouring forth to an adult, who helps her confront her fear. This book is lovely, but it has a depressive air. It’s a sad story of a girl and a lonely puppy who gets lost and becomes a fearful skittish adult dog. This story did not lead where many do, which made it unique. However, the story leaves a depressed feeling that makes it a one-time read.… (mehr)

Sylvie and the Wolf is a splendid book with an important message for all ages. Sylvie is a young girl who lives "high in the mountains, where shadow meets light." This lovely phrase is characteristic of the book's writing as well as its illustrations.
Sylvie is not afraid of anything and roams the forest and land surrounding her house. She dreams of the wider world she will someday enjoy. Mercè López's drawings are brimming with the joy Sylvie experiences in her beautiful surroundings. Climbing trees, sliding along with streams, and running with various animals are a routine part of Sylvie's life. That is, until a shadow moves, she sees the glint of teeth and hears the growl of a Wolf! Sylvie keeps this encounter a secret. She is so afraid of her formerly safe world that she stops exploring, and her wondrous realm becomes a tiny space indoors. López's illustrations again perfectly portray the transient darkness of the wolf and the gloom of Sylvie's world.
The book is at heart a children's book, but the message of not allowing our anxiety or fear to take over our lives is a valid directive for any age.
Thank you to NetGalley and publisher Sounds True for the ARC of this charming book.… (mehr)