GRANDFATHER BOWHEAD, TELL ME A STORY

When Arvaaq, a bowhead whale calf, asks wise Grandfather Bowhead to tell a story, each heartfelt response proves that nothing can compare to the wonder of his grandchild.

Grandfather Bowhead shares stories of the marvels he’s experienced over his 200-year lifetime but says they will never equal the love he has for his grandchild. “I’ve seen the northern lights running across the vast sky, but they do not compare to the wonder of your very first breath.” Arvaaq, whose Inuktitut name means a nursing bowhead calf according to the brief glossary, wants to hear all these amazing stories. Grandfather Bowhead says, “I’ve seen walruses dive into the very depths of the ocean to find clams to eat, but that does not compare to the depth of my love for you.” At night, he tells his grandchild, “nothing compares to the sweetness of your sleeping breath.” Other Arctic sea life join the bowhead whales in this quiet, rhythmic narrative. Together with painterly illustrations in monochromatic blues of the ocean, this underwater tale shows the wondrous love of a grandparent for his grandchild. While Grandfather Bowhead never actually tells a story, many pictures are so breathtaking readers won’t notice; in one, the whale is viewed suspended in the ocean gazing at the enormous bulk of an iceberg that renders him tiny by comparison.

Tender words of affection are perfect for sharing with any young child or grandchild.