Picture Book: Michael Bird-Boy
Author & Illustrator: Tomie dePaola
Summary: Michael wears a bird
costume every day. This isn’t explained but illustrations show his enthusiasm
for birds. A large black cloud appears which is making birds and flowers dirty
and blocking Michael’s view of the moon.
When Michael goes to investigate, he
discovers the pollution coming from the Genuine
Shoe-Fly Artificial Honey Syrup Factory. The Boss-Lady explains that the melting
of the sugar is making the black smoke.
Michael suggests that they make real
honey with real bees and he is willing to provide the bees. Later, the
Boss-lady calls Michael, complaining that the bees aren’t making honey. He
explains that the bees need flowers and hives. Boss-lady plants lots of flowers
and converts the smokestack into a beehive.
Success comes so Michael gets a thank you
letter and a visit from Boss Lady. She brings Michael some honey which he uses to
make a cake. They have a party celebrating their success!
Hanna’s Comments: Leave it to Tomie dePaola
to come up with a great book on micro-economics, local agricultural
problem-solving, and creation care that anticipates the passions of many who are looking for solutions to the complicated struggles of our Earth!
Although this book may seem perfect for
today’s environmental challenges, I’m holding the 40th anniversary
edition!
Religious communities are increasingly focusing their attention on God’s
call for creation care and discernment over concerns about global climate
change. This book is also a great example of creative problem-solving and
social-justice work, both of which can be inspired by God.
Original Publisher & Date: Simon
& Schuster, 1975
Age & Grade Appropriateness: 4 and up, Pre and up
Formats other than Book: Tablet
Scripture Connections: God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1); God
creates the lights in the skies (Genesis 1:14); the moon and stars which You
have set in place… (Psalm 8:3)
Idea(s) for Application: Read
this book to a group of children in a homeschool, private school, or church
context when considering ideas about God-inspired problem-solving for issues of
climate-change or other environmental concerns.
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