Mother West Wind 'Why' Stories - Thornton W. Burgess

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Résumé :
Step into the enchanting world of Mother West Wind 'Why' Stories by Thornton W. Burgess, where curiosity, nature, and the wisdom of the animal kingdom come alive. This delightful book takes readers on a journey through the captivating stories told by Mother West Wind, as she answers the curious questions of the young animal inhabitants of the forest. In Mother West Wind 'Why' Stories, readers will join their favorite woodland creatures as they seek answers to their burning questions about the world around them. From Peter Rabbit's inquisitive nature to Johnny Chuck's curiosity, each story reveals the secrets and wonders of nature, teaching valuable life lessons along the way. Thornton W. Burgess's storytelling captures the essence of the natural world, imparting wisdom and understanding through engaging animal characters and their delightful adventures. Through these stories, readers will develop a deeper appreciation for nature, gain insights into the interconnectedness of all living beings, and discover the importance of respecting and preserving the environment. Join Mother West Wind and her young animal friends on their quest for knowledge, as they uncover the wonders of the natural world and learn valuable lessons about life.

Biographie:
Born January 17, 1874 in Sandwich, Massachusetts, on Cape Cod, Burgess was the son of Caroline F. Haywood and Thornton W. Burgess Sr., a direct descendant of Thomas Burgess, one of the first Sandwich settlers in 1637. Thornton, Sr., died the same year his son was born, and the young Thornton, Jr. was brought up by his mother in Sandwich. They lived in humble circumstances. As a youth, he worked tending cows, picking trailing arbutus (mayflowers) or berries, shipping water lilies from local ponds, selling candy, and trapping muskrats. William C. Chipman, one of his employers, lived on Discovery Hill Road, a wildlife habitat of woodland and wetland. This habitat became the setting of many stories in which Burgess refers to Smiling Pool and the Old Briar Patch.

Sommaire:
Mother West Wind 'Why' Stories by Thornton W. Burgess is a collection of charming tales that delve into the whimsical world of animal folklore, explaining the origins of various animal traits and behaviors. The book is structured around a series of stories narrated by Grandfather Frog, a wise old character who shares his knowledge with the curious creatures of the Green Forest and Green Meadows. Each story provides a moral lesson or an explanation for a particular animal characteristic, such as why Striped Chipmunk is proud of his stripes, why Peter Rabbit cannot fold his hands, and why Reddy Fox wears a red coat. Through these engaging narratives, Burgess imparts valuable lessons about nature, behavior, and the consequences of one's actions. The tales are not only entertaining but also serve as a means to educate young readers about the natural world and the importance of virtues like honesty, hard work, and kindness. The book is illustrated with colorful images by Harrison Cady, adding visual appeal to the enchanting stories. Burgess's work is a testament to his deep appreciation for wildlife and his ability to weave educational content into delightful storytelling....