Earnest Sandpiper's Great Ascent

Earnest Sandpiper’s Great Ascent was about a young sandpiper who has trouble learning to fly due to a lack of self-confidence. My favorite illustration was when the mother made a heart around him and described what his heart would feel like when he was ready. The first part of the book reminded me of the Disney short which was sweet and gentle. The second part of the book had a powerful message about the dangers of balloons for wildlife. I was on the edge of my seat worried about little Earnest. Earnest's entanglement and near drowning because of a balloon string will be a memorable and striking event for young readers. This book has great emotional depth from the sweet interactions with the family, the danger, overcoming obstacles, and finally flying.

Little Earnest and his siblings are learning to fly. While his siblings quickly take to the air, Earnest struggles to find his wings. When danger comes, he discovers the power inside himself and the strength of his family's love.

Earnest and the sandpiper family are very cute. I love the oil paint texture of the illustrations, which combine charming, cartoon-like expressions with dramatic landscapes that capture the wild beauty and danger of the sea. It reminds me of both modern and classical art.

This is a story about believing in yourself, but also the importance of being good stewards of nature and thinking about the little creatures who share the world with us. Some readers may question if little birds really do learn to fly because of a warm, magical feeling inside, and well, real life might have more science than that, but a little confidence has to be part of it.

A perfect read for lovers of birds and critters and stories with heart.