Song of the River

LoveReading4Kids Says

Interest Age 8+ Reading Age 8

Gill Lewis’ stories connect young readers with the countryside and wild animals as the very best nature writing does, inspiring them to discover more of the outdoors and to stand up for the environment. In Song of the River, Cari is reluctantly beginning a new life with her mother following the tragic death of her father.

They have moved away from the city to a cottage next to a river where her mum opens a café. When a flood destroys their home, the resilience of the tiny water voles on the riverbank inspires Cari to see things differently, and a proposal to reintroduce beavers to the area convinces her that the future can be different.

The more she finds out about the scheme, the more involved she becomes, finding new strength as well as a place in the community. The story weaves together personal loss and recovery into a story with a message for us all. Simply told, the impact will be long-lasting.

Reviewed by Andrea Reece
Andrea Reece has spent almost her entire working life in children’s books, first as publisher, latterly as consultant, project manager and critic.
More reviews by Andrea Reece

About Song of the River

Times are tough for Cari and her mum. A violent storm has flooded the valley where they live, destroying their home and cafe business. Things seem bleak - but hope appears in the form of a plan to reintroduce beavers into the area, as the changes that these amazing animals make to the waterways might prevent another flood. Cari knows that she has to get involved.

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