Winter Rescue

by W.D. Valgardson

While helping his grandfather, an ice fisherman on frigid Lake Winnipeg, Thor becomes a hero even braver than his favorite cartoon superheroes. Includes recipe for a traditional Icelandic-Canadian dessert.

Hardcover

First published October 1, 1995

About the author

William Dempsey Valgardson (born 7 May 1939) is a Canadian novelist, short story writer, and poet. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and raised in Gimli, Manitoba, he completed his BA at United College, BEd at the University of Manitoba, and his MFA at the University of Iowa. He was a long-time professor of writing at the University of Victoria in British Columbia.

His writing often focuses on cultural differences and involve irony and symbolism. His short stories involve normal people in normal situations, yet under certain circumstances, lead unusual and surprising lives.

Valgardson has won numerous awards and accolades, including the Ethel Wilson Fiction Prize for The Girl With the Botticelli Face (1992) and the Books in Canada First Novel Award for Gentle Sinners (1980). His short story, "Bloodflowers", was included in Best American Short Stories 1971.

Reviews

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

All Thor wants to do on his visit with Grandparents, who live on Lake Winnepeg, is to sleep in and watch his favorite superhero cartoons. When his Grandfather's helper is sick, Thor reluctantly accompanies his grandfather on an ice fishing adventure. Thor learns that traditional Icelandic fishing methods and along the way becomes an unexpected hero when he is the only one who might be able to save a drowning man who has fallen through the ice.

As an added bonus, the author includes a recipe at the end of the book for ponnukokur which is a traditional Icelandic-Canadian treat. Ponnukokur are thin little pancake-like treats that are rolled into tubes, sprinkled with brown sugar, and are to be eaten with your fingers.

Themes: courage, heroism, Icelandic-Canadian culture
Published: 1995
Grades: K-5

Classroom uses:

This could be used in conjunction with a lesson on seasons. Children could draw or write about different types of winter activities.

This could be used for a lesson about heros. Children can talk about heros that they might know such as firefighters, policemen, etc.

Lead a discussion about courage. Students discuss ways we can have or show courage. Students could then work in groups and make a poster that depicts what they think courage means. They could also make their own courage badges to wear depicting what courage means to them.

[Heidi-Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The length is perfect for a K-4 audience. And I know they would follow what's going on. But I think it might be too slow for them. I found the adventure interesting. And I was glad they got the kid away from the TV, even if for one day. One to hold onto in case I don't find anything else for the Heroes Book Time.

[Qt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet, challenges of being a kid and wanting to watch cartoons, Icelandic.