Sean Qualls

A few reviews have been somewhat critical of this book's ties to Aesop's Bundle of Sticks fable and of whether kids would get it. I think it works on two levels. The Morrisons' may have been inspired by the fable and there is material to discuss about where Little Cloud fits in and whether she is stronger as part of a group. It is also is a simple, charming story about Little Cloud's dreams that is very accessible to children. I read the book without knowing it was based on the fable and show more just really enjoyed it.The illustrations are lovely. I loved the color palette used. The blue of sky seems is in every image coloring even the green earth and trees. I never thought about wind having a color, but Lady Wind's hair is it! show less

I really enjoyed reading this story for many reasons including the language, the writing style, and the way the book pushes readers. This story is all about inspiring children to overcome obstacles and be the best you that you can be. I believe the big idea/ message of the story is that you can do anything you put your mind to as long as you take the first step. The language in this story uses examples of inspirational figures like Albert Einstein, Neil Armstrong, Muhammad Eli and more as a show more way of engaging the reader about overcoming obstacles and fear. "Take a giant step over that fear- like the giant step one astronaut made on the moon for all mankind.". Also, the writing style in this story complimented the text throughout the story. "But you must pick yourself up and keep stepping.", on this page the text is physically climbing up the stairs. This gives readers a more visual representation of the words. I liked how this story pushed young readers to really understand that they can do anything they put their minds to. It provided great examples of people that overcame obstacles and became someone that others look up to. "What's your next step going to be?" show less

Little Cloud feels lonely because she does not want to join the other clouds in making a storm. Instead, she wants to swim, skip, play, etc. She meets Lady Wind who teaches Little Cloud that she does not have to be a part of something scary; she can be gentle like the mist, the rainbow, and the dew. Pick it up if only to see how Toni Morrison writes a children book then enjoy the poetry in the descriptions and the cool colors used to paint this tale about accepting who you are.

The language is a little clunky but the amount of words and the themes are perfect for a middle grade read-a-loud (3-4 grade). It's not too old and not too young.