Snow Doves

Snow is Canada’s signature. For children who just arrive from another land with a different climate, it can be either a joyful surprise or a chilly shock. Apparently, our main character Sami, in the wordless picture book Snow Doves, experienced the latter, at least at the beginning. But all was going to change when his new neighbour Joy came to knock on his window. Hesitantly, Sami bundled up under the practical (and fashionable) advice from Joy. And here began their adventure of playing outside on a snowy day – building a snowman, throwing snowballs, sledding down the hill, and feeding birds on their palms. Most importantly, they discovered the magic of making snow doves and gained a sparkling new friendship.

Nancy Harty, the author of many successful children’s books, has presented readers with a wonderfully sweet story behind the pictures. Readers will find quite a twist in the plot during which a new friendship is established and grows. By introducing the notion of snow “doves” instead of snow “angels”, the book maintains the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds of newcomer children, thereby being more welcoming and respectful.

The gorgeous illustrations by Gabrielle Grimard are the center of Snow Doves. Gabrielle is an award-winning illustrator of many widely adored picture books, including the 2018 Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Children’s Book Award-winner Stolen Words. Many charming details hidden in the pictures, such as the shadow of the kitten, enrich the story surprisingly and delightfully. The images of Sami and Joy are reflective of the diversity of Canadian children's populations. Children from visible minority groups will see themselves in the representations in the story and collect a sense of inclusion.

I sincerely hope Snow Doves can be an addition to school and community libraries to spark conversations and reflections on several important topics regarding newcomer children and to grand hopes to those whose hearts belong to two lands. As Gabrielle writes in his dedication, this book is for each child “whose heart belongs in more than one country” to find hope and strength.