A memory blows in on the wind in the form of a feather that lands amongst a child and his toys. Following this quiet start, is a list of questions on whether each object remembers its origins. At first, the book starts with simple items like a book or chair, then progresses towards larger concepts such as night, and love. All of these are left for the child to ponder, and although the book's simple rhyme is an easy read for young children, the questions are of such a nature that a parent may need to give assistance in understanding it. An idyllic, old-fashioned style fits the quiet, contemplative text. For each example one page features the little boy with said object, with the facing page showing his "no-longer stuffed" animals in a scene about its origin.The question of whether there are inherit memories in objects borders on some difficult philosophical or spiritual inquiries, whichever one prefers. However making a connection between things, that ultimately everything moves from something, is a very realistic aspect of the world.With such a charming presentation, not to mention one that requires some thought, this author has created a very beneficial book for children. “Once Upon a Memory” written by Nina Laden and illustrated by Renata Liwska is the warm story for children that talks about need to remember our past, of memories what was once and not forgetting all that has led us to today.The story starts when a feather will drift through one boy window starting his journey while he will follow magical feather to the fantasy world.On the way that is put in front of him, boy will meet cute animals while his story will be intertwined with motives of our memories, asking our young hero and reader questions such as “Does a book remember it once was a word?”, “Does a chair remember it was once was a tree?”, "Does love remember it once was new?", …“Once Upon a Memory” is a story that awakens longing, warmth of heart, book full of lyrical motifs that compels the reader to recall some nice memories of what was once.And although this book contains small of text it should be enjoyed slowly, page by page, because every sentence however brief raises many questions and awakens many memories.Renata Liwska illustrated this book with soft fairytale drawings of boys and wonderful animals he encountered, full of detail and vivid colors in which young readers will enjoy.Not often is the case that in a picture book adults can enjoy equally as, if not more, than the kids whom we are reading, but “Once Upon a Memory” is such an example therefore this beautiful book can be fully recommended both for text and illustrations, but also due to the feelings that evokes.
What do You think about Once Upon A Memory (2013)?
Precious questions posed in poetic form. Looking forward to sharing this with budding authors.
—miinx
Great quiet time or lap book. The illustrations and text go perfectly together.
—peter2
Incredibly sweet and also philosophical. The illustrations are a delight!
—fama
