On a far away island, Tanglewood lives alone. The tree stands tall and calls out to the birds and animals, but only the wind visits, blowing through the tree’s branches. One day, Seagull takes shelter from a storm in Tanglewood’s twisted branches. The lonely tree has a friend at last, but what will happen when the Seagull continues her journey and Tanglewood is alone once more?
Tanglewood is a beautifully told story of loneliness, friendship and family. Margaret Wild weaves an emotional tale as she describes Tanglewood’s longing to belong and Vivienne Goodman’s illustrations are just gorgeous. I particularly love the 15 images on the double-page spread showing the seasons passing.
Tanglewood works as both a touching story and a deeper lesson about family and friendship. I love the way the story ends and the details in the two final illustrations. I don’t want to give the ending away, but I think that Margaret Wild finds the perfect resolution to Tanglewood’s longing to connect.
Teachers could also find the book useful for discussing nature and the environment. There are teachers’ notes available.
Title: Tanglewood
Author: Margaret Wild
Illustrator: Vivienne Goodman
Publisher: Omnibus Books, $26.99 RRP
Publication Date: April 2012
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781862915701
For ages: 4 - 7
Type: Picture Book
