Sheree Fitch is one of Canada's leading children's poets and the recipient of the prestigious Vicky Metcalf Award. Yayo is the award-winning illustrator of more than 25 books for children. They have teamed up to capture the exotic thrills of a carnival in town, as dreams of drama and danger dance in the expectations of children.
Most of the youngsters can't wait to ride the gigantic Ferris wheel. When it stops near the top, its passengers feel like they are suspended in air with the canopy of stars overhead.
With poetic spunk and flair, Fitch focuses on the bravery of a little boy and his sister as the Ferris wheel turns into a shape-shifter before their wide eyes. First it takes the form of a pig, then a washing machine, and finally an apple tree. Soon it's up, up and away as brother and sister swing and sway with air above, around, and below them. The people on the ground look like "dancing jelly beans." And far too soon, it's down to earth again. The two who are still "fuzzy with the Ferris wheel feeling" tell their mother that they flew and are forever part of the sky.
Night Sky Wheel Ride is a splendid children's picture book for kids 3 to 6 years old. It takes a familiar experience and turns it into an exhilarating adventure that bequeaths two kids their long-awaited badge of courage along with an unexpected transcendental experience.
