Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings (1896-1953), the author of The Yearling, wrote only one book that was not intended for adult readers. That book was The Secret River, which was originally published posthumously in 1956. It has been republished with new and striking illustrations by Leo and Dianne Dillon, two-time Caldecott Medal winners.
Although The Yearling is read by many youngsters, fewer of them were ever introduced to a little girl named Calpurnia--a budding poet--and her little dog, Buggy-horse.
The Secret River is a tale--not quite a fairy tale, but with magical and surprising elements. Hard times have fallen on the forest, and her father can catch no fish to sell at his fish market. Calpurnia decides to find some fish to catch to help her father, and seeks out the help of Mother Albirtha, the wisest person in the forest. Mother Albirtha tells Calpurnia about the Secret River, and that the only way to find it is to follow your nose.
Calpurnia thinks Mother Albirtha's directions are silly, but does as she is told. As forest creatures catch her eye, she turns her head and finds a new direction to follow. Before long, she emerges from the forest onto the banks of a river she had never seen. Calpurnia and Buggy-horse catch so many fish--especially catfish--that they are almost unable to carry them home.
It is dark when Calpurnia and her dog head for home, and they meet several hungry creatures along the way. Calpurnia gives each a catfish or two, and then realizes they are lost. Once again, she decides to follow her nose. Soon she finds herself at Mother Albirtha's place, gives her a fish, and makes her way home, still carrying enough fish for her father's market.
Some time later, Calpurnia once more seeks out the Secret River, following her nose but never reaching its banks. When she tells Mother Albirtha, the old woman explains that the river allows itself to be found only when there is a need. However, the river exists in her mind and Calpurnia can see it any time she wants simply by closing her eyes and picturing it.
The publisher recommends this book for children aged 4 to 8 years, but it is a lovely story for older children to read aloud to younger siblings or just for their personal enjoyment, especially of the beautiful illustrations. This is a book that is certain to become a favorite.
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