Drops of Life - by Esko-Pekka Tiitinen (Hardcover)

About the Book

Winner at the 2012 Living Now Book Awards

An owl accompanies a dove on a long journey to her birthplace in Africa. They undertake part of the voyage on the back of a whale, who helps them when he sees that flying makes the old owl tired. Once they arrive at their destination, they find that sand has taken over the area--where a lush forest once stood, there's now nothing but desert! They will need the cooperation of other animals, a human, the sun, the water and a favorable wind in order to sow the seeds of life once more.

This beautiful story talks about solidarity, respect for nature, overcoming obstacles by helping one another, and the benefits of teamwork.

Guided Reading Level: R, Lexile Level: 720L

Book Synopsis

Winner at the 2012 Living Now Book Awards

An owl accompanies a dove on a long journey to her birthplace in Africa. They undertake part of the voyage on the back of a whale, who helps them when he sees that flying makes the old owl tired. Once they arrive at their destination, they find that sand has taken over the area--where a lush forest once stood, there's now nothing but desert! They will need the cooperation of other animals, a human, the sun, the water and a favorable wind in order to sow the seeds of life once more.

This beautiful story talks about solidarity, respect for nature, overcoming obstacles by helping one another, and the benefits of teamwork.

Guided Reading Level: R, Lexile Level: 720L

Review Quotes

"[illustrator] Nikolai Tiitinen combines bright and vibrant colors with rich, earthy tones. The blended backgrounds emphasize the fantastic nature of the characters and plot." --Once Upon a Book blog

"A great introduction to the care of the Earth." --"The Daytona Beach News-Journal"

"subtle and soothing"--"Milwaukee Journal Sentinel"

"A gentle, thoughtful tale of working together and of the miracles of nature, "Drops of Life" is also gorgeously decorated with sweeping, dramatic water-colored pages." --Lee Littlewood with Creators Syndicate

"This book teaches children not only an appreciation for nature, but that when we work together we can accomplish much more"--"One Mama's Daily Drama" blog

"Tiitinen creates a hopeful atmosphere with soulful animals set against compositions of blazing fire and cool earth tones." --"Publishers Weekly" (March 19, 2012)

"Realistically rendered animals are foregrounded, as on a stage, while Rothko-like backgrounds provide an aura of fantasy. The vibrant palette, strong contrast between warm and cool tones and sophisticated layering of colors effectively convey the splendor of nature." --www.KirkusReviews.com

About the Author

Esko-Pekka Tiitinen was born in Suonenjoki, Finland, acclaimed and award-winning author and artist Tiitinen's talents are renowned within several professional fields. He has an active career as a writer and director of theater, scriptwriter, composer, songwriter and dramatist. He has written more than twenty books, several plays, radio plays, opera librettos, and TV scripts, and he has shown his work in Finland and beyond.

Nikolai Tiitinen is an award-winning illustrator from Finland.