THE INDESTRUCTIBLE TOM CREAN by Jennifer Thermes
GENRE: Nonfiction Picture Book (ages 4-8 years)
PUBLISHER: Viking Books for Young Readers
RELEASE DATE: January 24, 2023
PAGES: 56
I was drawn to this children’s book by the cover, not gonna lie. The soft pastels and the combination of watercolors & colored pencils (and salt, apparently. Who knew?!) infuses the icy setting with warmth and sunny vibes. The cozy mood it creates is all the more important considering that the history presented in the account of Tom Crean is at times rather sad. (The dogs. I’m not crying…. you’re crying!) It’s a history, however, that will appeal to the little adventurers among us. From crashing waves to cracking ice, frostbite, seasickness, loneliness, shipwrecks, and mountain climbing, young explorers-at-heart will drink in the vivid scenes and dramatic tales with bated breath.
Bottom Line: The Indestructible Tom Crean by Jennifer Thermes is a beautifully illustrated and educational picture book that would make a nice addition to a homeschool or classroom library. The illustrations are quite eye-catching, varying in style and mood from timelines reminiscent of old newspaper headlines, living maps, stark landscapes, and snapshot cels laid out in film reel succession. Way back when I taught school, my third graders would have LOVED it! My nephews (1st grade & kindergarten) will definitely enjoy the pictures, though I’m not sure the text will hold their interest for at home ‘fun’ reading. However, in the context of a school lesson, this would assuredly appeal to them over a textbook, making the history come alive for their adventurous minds.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)
My Rating: 4 stars / beautiful book!
Some Other Books by Jennifer Thermes
What about you? What makes you want to read The Indestructible Tom Crean with a little adventurer in your life?
Hey, I wish I had young grandchildren again to buy this for. I love the story! Maybe there will be an adult follow-up!
it’s really a fascinating story! My husband enjoyed reading it too 🙂