Jeffrey and Sloth (Victoria: Orca Book Publishers, ISBN 978-1-55143-974-7, 32 pages), is one of those rare children's picture books that hold an appeal for both kids and adults. Although recommended for readers ages 4-9, this beautifully illustrated story belongs on the bookshelves of anyone young or old who has a love of writing and a desire to create, be it books, paintings or poems.false
Jeffrey and Sloth Began as Magazine Story
There are only two characters in Winter's children's story: Jeffrey, a young boy who is suffering from writer's block and Sloth, an imaginary and very bossy creature Jeffrey doodles when he can't find words to write. Eventually, Jeffrey, with the help of Sloth, rediscovers his creativity. Writers in particular will appreciate Jeffrey's dilemma:
"Jeffrey looked at the blank page. It glared back."
"I'm not a lousy writer! I just can't think of anything to write about."
This is the type of book authors should keep on their reference bookshelf and read when they feel the dreaded writer's block approaching!
Awards and Nominations
Jeffrey and Sloth was Kari-Lynn Winter's first book. Shortly after publication, it was turned into a stage play by Vancouver's Theatre and Education Company, Tickle Trunk Players.
It was nominated for the 2008 OLA Blue Spruce Award and was a finalist for the 2008 BC Book Prizes, and winner of 2006/7 ABCs of Education Best Books as well as the 2009 Chocolate Lilly BC Reader's Choice Award.
Other Children's Books by Kari-Lynn Winters
- Oh Ducky Day! (2009)
- Rhyme or Reason (2008)
- On My Walk (2009)
- Runaway Alphabet (2009)
- When Chickens Fly (2009)
About the Illustrator
Each of Ben Hodson's illustrations in Jeffrey and Sloth are magical. The detail in each image draws the reader in and young children in particular will return again and again to this book, not only because of the storyline, but to lose themselves in Hodson's bright and descriptive acrylic drawings.
About Kari-Lynn Winters:
Kari-Lynn Winters is a graduate of the National Theatre School of Canada. She is also an accomplished poet and an entertaining performer and classroom presenter. Her interactive and informal style has made her a favourite of both teachers and students alike. Educators interested in inviting Winters into their schools should visit her website for booking information.
Jeffrey and Sloth is available at all bookstores and also at Books on Board as a digital download. A detailed lesson plan created by Winters is available for downloading in PDF format to help with classroom instruction.
Julie Burtinshaw - Julie is the Reading and Literature and Writing and Publishing Editor for Suite101.com. She is also the author of five books and is ...
