I read via an online reader copy the fifth anniversary edition of The Shelter that is due in mid-October 2023. I am not sure what might be new about this Celine Claire story, but I do know that somehow, I missed it when it first came out. Granted, I am not thinking this is the best book ever, but it is a solid book with equally strong illustrations by Qin Leng.
The idea is an old story with a theme of giving to others, sharing and being a good neighbors. The Claire story has the animals of the forest are getting ready for the storm that is coming. And when it arrives, two shadows come out of the darkness and ask for shelter and food in exchange for some warm tea. Of course, no one has room or food to give (though they do, they do not wish to share due to their fear), and the two shadows, who are two bears, move on to the next house. However, they finally get to the hill that has nothing to give. But when it snows, and a brave little fox does the brave thing, the bears have all the shelter they need and are willing to share with the fox family when something happens to them.
It is a bit overly sweet, and a few things are convenient, but it still has a nice message to it. Overall, the illustrations are what I found to be my favorite part of this book, with their earthy tones and minimal but expressive details. And while it might be a hard read for a group, it could be done in a group or one-on-one setting. However, it is not always a happy story, so know how sensitive your reader can be.
