Written by Cosetta Zanotti
Illustrated by Lucia Scuderi
Translated by Angus Yuen-Killick
Published by Red Comet Press
Mom's Review
A Surprise in the Wood reminds me of the poem "Welcome to Holland" - both are embracing the unexpected in a new child's arrival. Mama and Papa Bear eagerly await the arrival of their cub and love the little fish who arrives for them. While the other forest-dwellers are uncertain, most ultimately accept the new family situation. Zanotti and Scuderi include the realistic hesitation and discomfort evinced by many neighbors. Most of those friends and neighbors ultimately come around and accept that they will have to swim in the lake when they visit the family's new home - which they do. It's not what they expected, but they can adapt. Disappointing, but believably, not everyone is flexible, but Mama and Papa Bear don't concern themselves who those neighbors. A Surprise in the Wood is a tribute to embracing children and their families as they come, even when they are different from your expectations. The beautifully illustrated Italian import is a story of love. Be sure to read the back matter about Zanotti's inspiration, family member Davide.
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