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An inspiring story about embracing your true self amid loss and adversity, this work introduces us to a tenderhearted snake who struggles against her natural instincts. Saddened by the fear she evokes in other creatures, Roslyn often starves herself, dreading the hunter within her. It isn't until she meets Rico, a fellow rattler (in a dapper white hat), that she discovers love and affirmation. When he vanishes mysteriously, she is overcome with loneliness, searching for him tirelessly and growing weak. Accidentally entering a weasel's den, she is viciously attacked and survives only due to the re-emergence of her instincts, which she now understands make her strong. After discovering a cave in which other welcoming rattlesnakes have found shelter, she soon gives birth to babies (one of which wears a hat like Rico's) and comes to embrace her identity fully: "Roslyn knew there must be someone there to design her life's plan. Now she was fulfilled, surrounded by her clan."
Throughout this stirring tale, Fullmer guides readers on a journey of self-discovery that will resonate with both children and adults. There is a maturity here that avoids easy solutions, but therein lies the message. By encouraging children to love themselves without guilt, even if others find them frightening, the author wraps a powerful message in a child-friendly package. This compelling narrative is revealed with well-crafted, rhymed prose, and the accompanying illustrations are vivid and lovely. That said, the colorful images are overlaid with the story's text, with only slight background fading provided for contrast, making some parts difficult to read. Additionally, while the tale will be inspiring to diverse audiences, some terms, such as "brumation" might be challenging for early readers. Overall, though, this story is truly exceptional and should be received with joy by readers seeking hope and validation.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review