Follow the Goose Butt to Nova Scotia
Follow the Goose Butt to Nova Scotia
“Whale!” blurted Camelia, as she pointed a long finger feather at a breaching pilot whale.
“Focus, Camelia!” reminded Aunt Tillie. “You need to pay attention. Remember, I will be working on this trip. When I am conducting my interviews, you need to be patient and keep yourself busy. You are a big gosling now, and you can do it – just don’t wander too far. If you know where we are heading, then you will be able to find me if you get lost”
“Roger That! Honkity hink! Focus and think. Honkity hink! Focus and think,” Camelia redirected her attention to the map that was spread out before them.” (pp. 8-10)
In this third book in the “Camelia Airheart” series, the determined young Canada goose tours Nova Scotia with her Aunt Tillie, a reporter for the CGBC – Canada Goose Broadcasting Corporation. Camelia’s directional problems continue because her GPS – Goose Positioning System – does not work. She is constantly getting lost, much to the despair of her aunt.
As the pair tour Nova Scotia, they meet many new friends, explore the landscape of the province, and have exciting adventures. Camelia and her aunt encounter several interesting characters: Shelldon the scallop, Spike the porcupine, Sandy and Duncan the Sable Island horses, Larry the leatherback turtle, and Willow the donkey. They visit famous Nova Scotia locations including: the Cape d’Or lighthouse, Kejimkujik National Park, Lunenburg Harbour, Sable Island, Cabot Trail, and Thinkers’ Lodge. But perhaps the most important aspect of this story is the lessons taught by Camelia’s generous and unselfish actions. She saves the life of the turtle by freeing it from plastic ocean garbage. Camelia wants to make the world a better place in her own small way!
The visual aspects of this early chapter book complement the narrative. There are maps of the journey throughout Nova Scotia so readers can track Camelia’s travels. These maps indicate where Camelia meets and befriends various animals. The black and white illustrations are interesting and detailed, giving young readers additional visual information to add to the text.
Follow the Goose Butt to Nova Scotia is aimed at beginning readers with simple plot devices, short chapters and repetitive text. Parents and teachers can read this book aloud to students, or more competent young readers can read it on their own. Follow the Goose Butt to Nova Scotia addresses several subject areas including: history, geography, climate science and ecology.
Myra Junyk, who resides in Toronto, Ontario, is a literacy advocate and author.