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Henrietta and Henry is a story about the life cycle of geese. Told from the viewpoint of a mother goose, Henrietta explains the role of parenting and the geese collective in preparing the new generation goslings for their first migratory flight. Inspired by the geese that surround Peiffer's apartment complex, her debut children's book covers themes of nature, life, and love for one another.
Rising author Margaret M. Peiffer grabs the attention of young readers from the start in a number of ways. For starters, Peiffer's first person narrative features every child's well-loved story characters—animals. Peiffer then takes it one step further by personifying the goose Henrietta. As storyteller, Henrietta opens by making an association with Mother Goose from Mother Goose rhymes. Offering a distinction from that familiar childhood icon, Henrietta explains her role as a real mother goose, her partnership with Henry, her gander mate, and their interplay with the geese community. Perfectly complementing Peiffer's first person prose are Kenn Yapsangco's simple yet realistic depictions of Henrietta and Henry's instinctive and patient habits to prepare and raise their goslings. Many scenes reflect the work—parental and communal—that goes into making sure the offspring are protected from danger. For example, Henrietta sitting on her eggs to keep them warm and dry during stormy weather, and a community of experienced geese babysitting several goslings. Peiffer closes with a succinct story synopsis set to a poem and five lessons from mother and father goose on the importance of flying in the V formation.
Henrietta and Henry is not only a wonderful informational book on the life cycle of geese, but it also sets a powerful example on the effectiveness of dedicated parenting and community involvement in raising the next generation.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review