The Bears on Hemlock Mountain facts for kids
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| Author | Alice Dalgliesh |
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| Illustrator | Helen Sewell |
| Publisher | Scribner |
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Publication date
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1952 |
| ISBN | 978-0-689-71604-1 |
The Bears on Hemlock Mountain is a children's book written by Alice Dalgliesh and illustrated by Helen Sewell. It was published in 1952. This exciting story is based on an old tall tale from Pennsylvania, a state in the United States. The book was recognized with a 1953 Newbery Honor award, which is a special prize for excellent children's literature.
Contents
About the Story: A Boy's Adventure
This book tells the tale of a young boy named Jonathan. He lives in a time when people believed there were no bears on Hemlock Mountain. But Jonathan's adventure might just prove them wrong! The story is full of suspense and wonder as Jonathan faces his fears.
Jonathan's Big Task
The story begins with Jonathan needing to go over Hemlock Mountain. He has to borrow a big iron pot from his aunt. This task seems simple, but it becomes a big adventure. Jonathan is told, "There are no bears on Hemlock Mountain, no bears at all." This phrase is repeated often, making readers wonder if it's really true.
The Journey and the Mystery
As Jonathan travels, he starts to feel uneasy. He hears strange sounds and sees things that make him question if he is truly alone. The mountain feels mysterious and a little bit scary. The author builds excitement as Jonathan gets closer to finding out the truth about the bears.
Facing the Unknown
Jonathan's journey teaches him about bravery. He has to be clever and resourceful to deal with what he finds on the mountain. The story shows how a young boy can overcome challenges. It also explores the idea of facing things that others say aren't real.
Who Wrote This Book?
The author of The Bears on Hemlock Mountain was Alice Dalgliesh. She was a well-known writer of children's books. Dalgliesh was born in Trinidad and later moved to the United States. She wrote many historical stories and picture books for young readers.
Alice Dalgliesh's Writing Style
Alice Dalgliesh was known for her clear and simple writing. She often based her stories on real history or folk tales. This made her books both fun to read and educational. She had a special talent for making old stories feel new and exciting for children.
The Illustrator's Art
The beautiful pictures in the book were drawn by Helen Sewell. Her illustrations help bring Jonathan's adventure to life. Sewell's drawings capture the mood of the story, from the quiet journey to the surprising moments.
Helen Sewell's Unique Style
Helen Sewell was a talented artist who illustrated many children's books. Her drawings often have a classic and timeless feel. For The Bears on Hemlock Mountain, her artwork helps readers imagine the mountain and Jonathan's feelings. The pictures add a lot to the story's charm.
Why This Book is Special
The Bears on Hemlock Mountain is special for several reasons. It teaches about courage and facing fears. It also introduces readers to the idea of a "tall tale." The book's simple yet powerful message has made it a favorite for many years.
What is a Tall Tale?
A tall tale is a type of folk story. It usually features a hero who is larger than life or does amazing, impossible things. Tall tales often use humor and exaggeration. They are meant to entertain and sometimes explain things in a fun way. The idea that there are "no bears at all" on Hemlock Mountain is a bit like a tall tale itself.
Awards and Recognition
In 1953, The Bears on Hemlock Mountain received a Newbery Honor award. The Newbery Medal is one of the most important awards for children's literature in the United States. A Newbery Honor means the book was a runner-up for the main award, showing it is a truly outstanding book. This award helped the book become widely known and loved.
