The village of Fairyville is home to Tinsley, her parents and siblings, and their fairy-pet, Pete. Each day begins with a visit to the baker, followed by a trip to Old Potter's Place to search for needed flowers like "bluebells and Queen's lace." However, one fateful day they hear a loud noise "that shook the giant Global Tree." Upon inspection, the fairies learn of a sickness that is quickly infecting the fairies. They are advised to keep some distance between themselves and others. The Fairy Council meets and sends out all the medical fairies to assess the situation. The fairies are advised to wear masks, not touch their faces, and wash their hands and pixie wings. They are also told, "Stay home, only shop when you must, but no more travel 'til this ends."

In this poignant children's book, the fairies learn of a strange illness that must be contained through personal responsibility. The fairies are encouraged to look out for one another while taking precautions to keep their fellow fairies and themselves safe from the illness by following the suggested rules laid out by the Fairy Council. The disease that invades the land of the fairies is similar to Covid-19, as are the precautions for stopping the spread of it. Written in rhyming couplets, the story can easily be understood by young readers and used as a source in helping them comprehend a worldwide epidemic. Illustrations by Lori Taylor are an excellent addition to the story and help very young children grasp the storyline. An addendum on "Fairy Lore" is informative and interesting for further discussion. This book offers a great resource for teaching young children about a global pandemic through storytelling. Its message of hope and caring is universal.

Trembath's Out of Slavery was a 2021 Eric Hoffer Book Award Category Finalist

Return to USR Home