Book Review: When It’s Winter by Karen A. Wyle (Author) and Barbara Dessi (Illustrator)

She’s done it again folks… The talented Karen Wyle, for whom I’ve reviewed a number of adult titles – Twin-Bred, Wander Home, and Division – and who has provided excerpts and character interviews for several of her others – including the second Twin-Bred novel and Water to Water in a two-part series of posts – has once again proved her versatility with another delightful children’s book. 

Her first foray into children’s books – You Can’t Kiss a Bubble – took readers on a magnificent adventure with bubbles. This time she’s taken on the wonders of winter, and through the eyes of her main character (delightfully presented via illustrator Barbara Dessi’s imagination), it’s a wondrous place and time indeed!

In her own words:
A snowy winter offers a feast for the senses, and activities for a child to engage in either alone or with friends. Come inside this book and explore!

(You don’t need to bring a dog — there’s already one here.)

Now how could you not be intrigued by that – especially given the absolutely lovely illustrations?

The story is a sweet exploration of all the magic of winter, viewed through the most magical of lenses – those of a child. There is cocoa and swirling snow, a snowman and a prancing dog. Tingling noses. Hand-warming cocoa. A night sky brimming with stars. It’s a marvelous journey through the season – and you don’t even need to bundle up to enjoy it (although blankets and snuggles always help with children’s books, in my humble opinion).

Thank you to the author for my obligation-free digital review copy. You can find the book for sale on Amazon here.