A Newfoundland Maple by Samantha Baker

"A Newfoundland Maple" by Newfoundland author Samantha Baker is quite simply an enchanting story. When a young school aged boy, named Daniel, sets out on a summer fishing trip in western Newfoundland with his grandfather, the pair come across an old maple tree in the middle of the forest. As the grandfather explains his relationship with the tree, Daniel can't help but wonder about the bonds that are forged with the wildlife that visit the maple tree throughout the four seasons.  

I knew from the get-go that this book would be about more than just a boy and a tree when I turned the page to see a very powerful image; that of an old, withered, experienced hand gently touching the bark of the staunch and dependable maple. This illustration was a powerful reminder of the strength of these two living monuments and our dependence on them both. Just as the maple provides sustenance to the moose and her calf, shelter to the beaver and caribou, and a resting place for the bluejays the grandfather is the fountain of wisdom, knowledge, patience and perspective. Likewise, it was not lost on me that the illustrator of "A Newfoundland Maple" is Dawn Baker, author and illustrator of 8 children's books and mother to the author, Samantha. The images are vivid and captivating, a kaleidoscope of color. Young readers will delight in the illustrations and will have an opportunity to revisit the beauty in these pages by looking for a variety of insects, birds and wildlife that the illustrator has "hidden" throughout the pages of this little piece of Canadiana. This book would serve as a wonderful read aloud to primary children and especially fits well with the Grade One Newfoundland Science curriculum on seasonal changes. 

"A Newfoundland Maple" is a timeless story and suitable for both the young and young at heart. It is a Flanker Press publication.

The Puffin Patrol by Dawn Baker

When two young friends  decide to roam the dark streets in Witless Bay, Newfoundland one August evening they embark upon a rescue mission like no other. Susan and Ryan, together with Ryan's big sister,  volunteer their time with The Puffin Patrol to locate stranded pufflings that become disoriented and lost while making their first flight attempts. As these budding conservationists search roadways and backyards capturing the fledgling seabirds and releasing them back into their natural habitat they discover the ensuing pride and satisfaction in knowing that their efforts support the survival of these iconic Newfoundland birds. 

The Puffin Patrol is a children's picture book most suitable for readers up to age 10. Fictional in nature, Dawn Baker has based story events on the real life work of Juergen and Elfie Schau and their Puffin and Petrel Patrol organization founded in 2004. Baker does a superb job in combining the elements of the story while at the same time weaving tidbits of factual information throughout the plot. The simplistic presentation of both language and colorful illustrations will captivate an innately curious audience and makes the plight of these young auks both comprehendable, believable and worthy of saving. Promoting  stewardship within our very youngest citizens, The Puffin Patrol will inspire children and adults alike to become citizen scientists in their own community. 

The Puffin Patrol is a great family read! It supports inquiry based exploration and encourages young audiences to ask questions and seek answers through actionable efforts.  The "Did you know?" and "How can you help?" sections at the end of the book certainly encourages readers to think of ways that they can help vulnerable creatures in their own backyard.  The Puffin Patrol is a Flanker Press Publication.  

Dawn Baker has written and illustrated several other books including the ones you will find HERE!