From School Library Journal
Grade 3-4-Some years ago, a large, coffee-table book called Gnomes (Abrams, 1977) was published. This picture book has illustrations clipped from that volume and a long-winded, saccharine text in small print that purports to let readers in on the secrets of gnome life. It may be that Huygen's writings about the monthly doings of the little folk have lost a great deal in translation. The illustrator, who is no longer alive to defend himself or his work, might be dismayed to see one of his little creations inexplicably shorn of his feet and drifting in midair on the page about April. Both are good reasons to avoid purchasing the book.
Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From the Publisher
Gnome Life-inspired by Abrams' best-selling classic Gnomes-is a charming introduction to the world of the gnomes for the entire family. From January to December, the book reveals the everyday activities as well as the wonders and adventures of a gnome family. Whether feeding hungry animals in the snow, guarding baby birds from predators, riding the backs of ducks to tend a sick human child, or storing food for winter, the lives of gnomes are full of magic and mystery. The stories and customs of these little folk will enchant young readers, who through the kind acts of the gnomes will gain respect and admiration for the natural world. This is a wonderful book for the entire family to share. 32 pages of illustrations in full color, 811/4 x 1111/2" Wil Huygen is a Dutch physician who collaborated with Rien Poortvliet on Gnomes and other books. The late Rien Poortvliet was one of Holland's-and the world's-favorite illustrators and authors. Co-creator of Gnomes, which has sold well over one million copies in the United States alone, he also wrote and illustrated a number of other books about animals and rural life, including Abrams' Dogs, The Farm Book, Noah's Ark, and Daily Life in Holland in the Year 1566.
