Category: Children ISBN-10: 1460221907
Type: Fiction
Pages: 32
Copyright: October 15th, 2013
ISBN-13: 9781460221907
Price: $0.99 (eBook)
At the Window is about Henry, an orphan, who finds peace, love and hope in his life.
At the Window is a traditional children's book about peace, love and hope. It is a quiet, sensitive story that invites readers to consider the undeniable nature of love. Henry and his little sister, Emily, are orphans who live under the care of Ms. Agnes at St. Peter's Orphanage. One wintry night, Henry notices a bright, shining light tear through the sky-but he is the only one who notices. The following week, he sees the light again and Henry now begins to think this is more than a coincidence. The burning light sets a spark inside of Henry's own heart and he begins to search for answers. Patience and an open spirit ultimately lead him to the truth, where the warmth and light fully embraces him.
Excerpt
It was a crisp Wednesday afternoon on a late wintry day when Henry felt a chill hit his bones. It must be from the cold weather, he thought. Some much-needed rest and his favourite night-time snack—a cup of hot cocoa with melted marshmallows and delicious lemon-drop cookies—would do the trick. He absolutely loved when Ms. Agnes, the orphan-keeper, would make this treat, which she happily did when he and his little sister Emily politely asked.
As the evening gave way to night, the clouds began to slowly part. A beautiful star-filled sky lit up the quiet town. Henry and his little sister were anxiously awaiting their favourite night-time snack when, through the window in the orphanage play room, shot a bright, shining star. It tore through the sky.
“Wow!” Henry yelped. “Did you see that, Emily?”
“See what?” Emily replied.
“Didn’t you see that burning light that raced through the sky?”
Emily looked at her older brother with a puzzled expression. After a few moments, she refocused her attention back to her hot cocoa and lemon drop cookies. Henry, feeling warmed and energized after eating his snack, was very excited by what he had seen, and kept his eyes glued to the window for the rest of the evening. Once he finally went to bed, he lay awake for hours thinking about that bright, shining star. It was the first time Henry had ever seen such a wonder.
Professional Reviews
One for the Collection
As a longtime collector of children’s books I’m very selective about what I include in my collection. It can’t just be any book. I love great art work. Rhythmic writing styles. And fresh, unexpected storytelling that allows me to escape while being entertained. But what I love and look for most of all in a good storybook, are those classic, simple, relatable stories that pull at the heartstrings. Evoke emotion. Make memories. And make memories last. ...At the Window by Joseph Forte is one of those books. It expertly takes an emotional story of a child’s loss and shapes it into a journey of hope and heart, that all kids (and adults) can appreciate.
My love for children’s literature began with my Mom. She read to me so many nights. At first books from the library, then the beautiful ones she bought me over holidays and birthdays - starting a library of my own that I still proudly display in my little apartment today. She had exceptional taste and I know without a doubt At the Window would have been among her favourites.
...In fact, I’ll read it to her at my own window tonight because I know it’ll make her smile... and maybe cry a little... the way it has for me.
Simply Beautiful
At the Window is a heartwarming story of hope and genuine love. Henry's story filled my eyes with tears and made my heart smile at the same time. I'm excited to put this book on the library shelf and share it with the students at my elementary school. Well done, Joseph!
At the Window Delivers
This is the kind of children's book that makes me remember why children's books are so important. Joseph Forte has created an enduring story that is poignant in its simplicity and heart. Examining themes of loss, unending love and the connection to those we love most, At The Window is already on our regular bedtime story rotation. We are hoping to see many more books from this talented young voice in children's literature.
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