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Lights along the River
On a cold winter morning in 1952, Patsy Lamondin wakes to the day electricity will finally be connected to her small town along the Magnetawan River. Patsy and her siblings buzz with excitement, eagerly awaiting the ceremony being held at the center of town. The Lamondins have lived along the waters of Georgian Bay and the Magnetawan River for generations. They are a Métis family who love music, dancing and being outdoors, and Patsy ponders how electricity will change all of their daily lives. What she knows for sure is that, whatever changes, she will always feel she belongs here.
- GenresPicture Books
32 pages, Hardcover
Published May 14, 2024
1 person is currently reading
14 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 11, 2024
What an adorable story! The main character looks like my daughter, which was so sweet! I love this book because it shows that it’s the simple things that make life special & that technology is only meant to enhance the parts of our life that we already enjoy, not to take it over!
I loved the focus on family time in this book, and how we can grow with change, but it doesn’t need to change us. The kids who loved to play together before, found it easier to do fun things with the lights on! It made playtime longer and more fun! They could jump and jump now without fear of knocking over the lanterns.
Change can bring joy, if we embrace it & set boundaries within it! I loved how this story was based on a true story, and it would be a great book for schools and homeschool moms. It offers a bit of history, education in technology advances and gives a sweet portrait of a family adapting to new ways of life! Maybe children who read this story can be encouraged to feel that new things aren’t scary, they won’t change how we live (unless we let them), and they can bring about positive outcomes!
I loved the focus on family time in this book, and how we can grow with change, but it doesn’t need to change us. The kids who loved to play together before, found it easier to do fun things with the lights on! It made playtime longer and more fun! They could jump and jump now without fear of knocking over the lanterns.
Change can bring joy, if we embrace it & set boundaries within it! I loved how this story was based on a true story, and it would be a great book for schools and homeschool moms. It offers a bit of history, education in technology advances and gives a sweet portrait of a family adapting to new ways of life! Maybe children who read this story can be encouraged to feel that new things aren’t scary, they won’t change how we live (unless we let them), and they can bring about positive outcomes!
March 4, 2024
First off, stunning illustrations. The illustrator did an amazing job of bringing the story to life visually. It's a sweet story about a family getting electricity for the first time. Kids will enjoy all the illustrations and learn about change being a positive rather than a bad thing. Kids can learn gratitude as well by reading this book. I suggest this book for elementary school-aged kids. An elementary school teacher might enjoy reading this to their students.
Love Always, Catherine
I received an advanced review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Love Always, Catherine
I received an advanced review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 23, 2024
This was such a well done book. The story was told from the young girl's perspective about her family life before, and after, they got electricity to their town. Back when there were no screens to stare at, and families made their own fun together. It was very sweet, and the illustrations are so beautiful! Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read this ARC. I think kids will love this story.
February 12, 2024
the story is pretty simple, it’s about this girl who experiences electricity for the first time. her village didn’t have electricity for a long time now they can see the light and the homes are bright even in the darkest night. I love the family aspect, and how excited and grateful they are over the thing that we usually take for granted.
March 8, 2024
This is a short story - well written and with really nice illustrations.
Its probably meant for children, however, I enjoyed reading it and it made me introspect on the choices i make on how i spend my time, the things i use and do in my everyday life.
The story, the characters and the changing of way of life were really relatable. I especially liked the family dynamics and the interactions of the siblings.
Its probably meant for children, however, I enjoyed reading it and it made me introspect on the choices i make on how i spend my time, the things i use and do in my everyday life.
The story, the characters and the changing of way of life were really relatable. I especially liked the family dynamics and the interactions of the siblings.
May 18, 2024
Book Review: Lights along the River by Pat Lamondin Skene
Rating: 4 Stars
"Lights along the River" by Pat Lamondin Skene, with illustrations by Sabrina Gendron, is a heartwarming tale set in a small town along the Magnetawan River in 1952. The story follows Patsy Lamondin and her siblings as they eagerly anticipate the arrival of electricity in their town, a significant event that promises to bring about changes to their daily lives. As a Métis family with a deep connection to their land and traditions, the Lamondins' love for music, dancing, and nature shines through the pages.
Skene's narrative beautifully captures the essence of belonging and heritage, drawing readers into a world where the arrival of modernity collides with the timeless bonds of family and community. Through Patsy's perspective, we witness the blend of excitement and apprehension that comes with embracing progress while holding onto cherished traditions.
What sets "Lights along the River" apart is its authenticity, as it is based on the author's own life experiences. This personal touch adds a layer of depth and sincerity to the storytelling, making it resonate even more strongly with readers. The illustrations by Sabrina Gendron complement the narrative perfectly, bringing to life the beauty of the river and the warmth of the Lamondin family.
As a reader who appreciates stories set in Canada, "Lights along the River" held a special place in my heart. It not only celebrates the country's natural beauty but also pays homage to the rich cultural tapestry woven by its diverse inhabitants. Skene's storytelling evokes a sense of nostalgia and connection to the past, reminding us of the importance of preserving our roots even as we embrace change.
In conclusion, "Lights along the River" is a delightful read that offers a blend of history, tradition, and hope. It is a touching tribute to family, community, and the enduring spirit of belonging. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a poignant and uplifting story that captures the essence of Canadian life along its riverside communities.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: 4 Stars
"Lights along the River" by Pat Lamondin Skene, with illustrations by Sabrina Gendron, is a heartwarming tale set in a small town along the Magnetawan River in 1952. The story follows Patsy Lamondin and her siblings as they eagerly anticipate the arrival of electricity in their town, a significant event that promises to bring about changes to their daily lives. As a Métis family with a deep connection to their land and traditions, the Lamondins' love for music, dancing, and nature shines through the pages.
Skene's narrative beautifully captures the essence of belonging and heritage, drawing readers into a world where the arrival of modernity collides with the timeless bonds of family and community. Through Patsy's perspective, we witness the blend of excitement and apprehension that comes with embracing progress while holding onto cherished traditions.
What sets "Lights along the River" apart is its authenticity, as it is based on the author's own life experiences. This personal touch adds a layer of depth and sincerity to the storytelling, making it resonate even more strongly with readers. The illustrations by Sabrina Gendron complement the narrative perfectly, bringing to life the beauty of the river and the warmth of the Lamondin family.
As a reader who appreciates stories set in Canada, "Lights along the River" held a special place in my heart. It not only celebrates the country's natural beauty but also pays homage to the rich cultural tapestry woven by its diverse inhabitants. Skene's storytelling evokes a sense of nostalgia and connection to the past, reminding us of the importance of preserving our roots even as we embrace change.
In conclusion, "Lights along the River" is a delightful read that offers a blend of history, tradition, and hope. It is a touching tribute to family, community, and the enduring spirit of belonging. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a poignant and uplifting story that captures the essence of Canadian life along its riverside communities.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
February 15, 2024
Thank you so much to Orca Book Publishers and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.
This beautiful memoir tells the story of young Patsy, when her little town finally got electricity in 1952. I loved the way it was written it was so lovely, you could feel everything that Patsy was feeling as all the changes were happening around her.
I really enjoyed stepping into this girls life, seeing the happy life she lived. The way it’s written shares how much they loved where they lived how they were able to entertain themselves with what they had, and though excited for the electricity Patsy was still a little apprehensive over it.
I really enjoyed reading this story, I never realised how long it took for electricity to reach certain parts of the world, but I suppose it would have taken a while. So it was really wonderful seeing this wonderful town so excited that it was finally arriving and being put up to make their world a little brighter.
The illustrations within this book were absolutely beautiful to look at, you could spend ages looking at them all. Seeing her and her siblings playing, the beautiful visuals of the town they lived in. It was so pretty.
This is such a sweet story of one girls life and experience in the 50’s and it was great to read, it was written beautifully, the subject was unique and so interesting and the characters are so lovely that you enjoy following them. I also love that this was the authors actual story that she is sharing.
This beautiful memoir tells the story of young Patsy, when her little town finally got electricity in 1952. I loved the way it was written it was so lovely, you could feel everything that Patsy was feeling as all the changes were happening around her.
I really enjoyed stepping into this girls life, seeing the happy life she lived. The way it’s written shares how much they loved where they lived how they were able to entertain themselves with what they had, and though excited for the electricity Patsy was still a little apprehensive over it.
I really enjoyed reading this story, I never realised how long it took for electricity to reach certain parts of the world, but I suppose it would have taken a while. So it was really wonderful seeing this wonderful town so excited that it was finally arriving and being put up to make their world a little brighter.
The illustrations within this book were absolutely beautiful to look at, you could spend ages looking at them all. Seeing her and her siblings playing, the beautiful visuals of the town they lived in. It was so pretty.
This is such a sweet story of one girls life and experience in the 50’s and it was great to read, it was written beautifully, the subject was unique and so interesting and the characters are so lovely that you enjoy following them. I also love that this was the authors actual story that she is sharing.
October 3, 2023
A slight kind of read, but one you doubt could be done much better. Its anecdotal feel comes from the fact it's based on the truth of the electricity supply finally hitting the author's home town, back in the early 1950s. Here the evenings are defined by oil lamp, and when the lantern has lit the way to bed for the three children of the family, that is it. So it's all impatience and anticipation when the power is about to be plugged in for the first time ever. And… when the whole ceremonial has been gone through… it feeds one bare bulb outside the post office, with no great effect at all. But it's at home where the marvels begin…
Nicely showing the young reader that things haven't always been on tap to be taken for granted, this doesn't labour the benefits of progress or such – it's just the event in and of itself. It doesn't go down the whole "and wonders, my life was changed at the flick of a switch" exaggeration, either. The artist shows her merits off to a T, making everything and everyone look almost too attractive, but beyond that there is an unshowiness here that appealed. You could say the book gives off the same gentle glow as an old lightbulb, with a cosy familiarity that makes it most pleasant. A strong four stars.
Nicely showing the young reader that things haven't always been on tap to be taken for granted, this doesn't labour the benefits of progress or such – it's just the event in and of itself. It doesn't go down the whole "and wonders, my life was changed at the flick of a switch" exaggeration, either. The artist shows her merits off to a T, making everything and everyone look almost too attractive, but beyond that there is an unshowiness here that appealed. You could say the book gives off the same gentle glow as an old lightbulb, with a cosy familiarity that makes it most pleasant. A strong four stars.
February 24, 2024
This picture book is historical fiction, but the author based it on her personal experiences from childhood. The remote part of Canada where she lived got electricity in 1952. This book explores what it was like to wait for that monumental change, and shows how electricity changed everyday life in both positive and negative ways.
The illustrations are beautiful and atmospheric, and they visually portray routine parts of life before electricity, such as pumping water. Also, even though the slice-of-life story feels somewhat meandering even at its short length, it's an interesting look into history with warm family vibes. The author also briefly ties in her part-indigenous heritage, although it's not a major part of the story.
This book will appeal to kids and adults who enjoy historical fiction, and it will be great in classroom and homeschool contexts. This will work well for young kids who are just learning about life prior to electricity, and it will also be a good fit as a discussion-starter with older kids, encouraging them to reflect on the pros and cons of technological change.
I received a temporary digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The illustrations are beautiful and atmospheric, and they visually portray routine parts of life before electricity, such as pumping water. Also, even though the slice-of-life story feels somewhat meandering even at its short length, it's an interesting look into history with warm family vibes. The author also briefly ties in her part-indigenous heritage, although it's not a major part of the story.
This book will appeal to kids and adults who enjoy historical fiction, and it will be great in classroom and homeschool contexts. This will work well for young kids who are just learning about life prior to electricity, and it will also be a good fit as a discussion-starter with older kids, encouraging them to reflect on the pros and cons of technological change.
I received a temporary digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2024
The Lights Along the River is a heartwarming and cosy story about Patsy, who experiences the first time electricity is connected to her small town on the Magnetawan River.
The story has a lovely sense of hope, and nervous anticipation, as Patsy reflects on what this new life with electricity might look like. It does a great job of exploring the way things change in our life, and the way we adapt.
The text was a little small, but otherwise this was a wholly enjoyable story. The illustrations were glowy and nostalgic, and the illustrator perfectly captured the emotions of the characters through their facial expressions.
It’s a great story to encourage kids to reflect on the idea that things we take for granted now were once new! The author shares her own experiences, and prompts readers at the end to think of the changes they might see in their lifetime. I think this would be great fun for kids to read with grandparents, who can share their own experience of change throughout their life.
Thank you Orca Book Publishers and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
The story has a lovely sense of hope, and nervous anticipation, as Patsy reflects on what this new life with electricity might look like. It does a great job of exploring the way things change in our life, and the way we adapt.
The text was a little small, but otherwise this was a wholly enjoyable story. The illustrations were glowy and nostalgic, and the illustrator perfectly captured the emotions of the characters through their facial expressions.
It’s a great story to encourage kids to reflect on the idea that things we take for granted now were once new! The author shares her own experiences, and prompts readers at the end to think of the changes they might see in their lifetime. I think this would be great fun for kids to read with grandparents, who can share their own experience of change throughout their life.
Thank you Orca Book Publishers and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
February 12, 2024
This is a picture book about what it is like to go from having to pump your own water, and light a lantern at night, to having electric lights, and indoor plumbing, as so many things that we take for granted, in our modern lives, and this was less than 70 years ago. This was in the author’s lifetime, when this happened to her.
Patsy, the protagonist, loves the idea of electricity, and does enjoy it when it comes about, but at the very end of the book she laments what was also lost. That they do not read, or tell stories, or dance as much.
This is an interesting look at a time, not so long ago, that most children can’t even imagine it. It is almost like reading Little House on the Prairie books.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book will be published the 14th of May 2024.
Patsy, the protagonist, loves the idea of electricity, and does enjoy it when it comes about, but at the very end of the book she laments what was also lost. That they do not read, or tell stories, or dance as much.
This is an interesting look at a time, not so long ago, that most children can’t even imagine it. It is almost like reading Little House on the Prairie books.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book will be published the 14th of May 2024.
February 13, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this book in exchange for my review! All opinions are my own.
This book reminded me of books by Robert McCloskey, Jan Brett, and Jane Yolen, who were some of my favorite authors to read as a young girl. I thought the illustrations were very cute, and the story was very well executed. If I had a child, I would purchase this book for them.
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This book reminded me of books by Robert McCloskey, Jan Brett, and Jane Yolen, who were some of my favorite authors to read as a young girl. I thought the illustrations were very cute, and the story was very well executed. If I had a child, I would purchase this book for them.
Connect with Me <3
My blog is https://bookreviewsbyjules.blogspot.com/
Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/4...
Instagram/bookstagram https://www.instagram.com/bookreviews...
Thank you!
February 18, 2024
Through a beautiful story told with beautiful illustrations in a very middle grade style, we are immersed in the story of a family who is about to connect electricity in their small town. The story is an experience of the author herself, and in a few pages it is filled with the emotion and expectation of a little girl who sees before her how something will happen that can change the way her daily life and that of her acquaintances develops.
It is a nice reflection of a change that came to revolutionize the way of doing things and how people lived it at the time, besides being a good approach to a children's historical fiction for the smallest of the home.
#LightsalongtheRiver #NetGalley
It is a nice reflection of a change that came to revolutionize the way of doing things and how people lived it at the time, besides being a good approach to a children's historical fiction for the smallest of the home.
#LightsalongtheRiver #NetGalley
February 23, 2024
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange of an honest review, thank you!
Lights along the River shows how electricity is introduced to a small Canadian town for the first time. Patsy - who is the author herself - and her siblings are excited to see what changes this will bring to their lives. We can also gain an insight into how they live without electricity. This helps the reader understand why this event is so important. A very pleasant little historical read for young children who, in today's world, may wonder if such a world ever existed. Patsy also mentions that even though the world around her is changing, she hopes to stay the same. The illustrations are very beautiful, it is worth paying attention to the small details in the drawings (e.g. how the rooms will be brighter after turning on the lights).
Lights along the River shows how electricity is introduced to a small Canadian town for the first time. Patsy - who is the author herself - and her siblings are excited to see what changes this will bring to their lives. We can also gain an insight into how they live without electricity. This helps the reader understand why this event is so important. A very pleasant little historical read for young children who, in today's world, may wonder if such a world ever existed. Patsy also mentions that even though the world around her is changing, she hopes to stay the same. The illustrations are very beautiful, it is worth paying attention to the small details in the drawings (e.g. how the rooms will be brighter after turning on the lights).
March 20, 2024
Lights Along the River by Pat Lamondin Skene is an awesome book! Lights Along the River tells the story of Patsy and the people of her town getting electricity for the first time in 1952, wondering how things would change. I love reading about what Patsy and those around her thought about how electricity. Some people hear about relatives getting electricity for the first time, but for me it was different seeing pictures like the ones drawn in Lights Along the River. I highly recommend Lights Along the River for any reading time. Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. My review is also on Goodreads.
February 11, 2024
This is a great book to explain to children how life used to be. I read it with my niece and nephew and explained that this is what life was like when Grampy was little and how they didn’t have electricity. They were enamored with the idea of using an oil lamp instead of turning on a switch on the wall. All the way through we made connections to my parents and grandparents and how this was similar to their life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Orca Books Publishers for allowing me to read an ARC of this novel. #NetGalley #LightsalongtheRiver
Thank you to NetGalley and Orca Books Publishers for allowing me to read an ARC of this novel. #NetGalley #LightsalongtheRiver
February 15, 2024
Personal true stories are a great way to teach children about the world, and I am so glad the author shares this story of her small town finally receiving electricity in the 1950s. Gorgeous artwork brings this book to life with wonderful little details and lovely colors. Perfect for teachers and homeschoolers studying Canadian history or electricity. A worthwhile addition to any public or personal library.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from Orca Book Publishers and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from Orca Book Publishers and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 13, 2024
This book is so beautiful, the artwork is just pure delight to look at!
The images are bold and colorful, yet feel very clean and neat.
The text is perfect for the drawings, simple, yet filled with meaning.
This book also is a loving reminder not to take everything for granted, or at least a loving nudge towards a conversation about it with the children.
The images are bold and colorful, yet feel very clean and neat.
The text is perfect for the drawings, simple, yet filled with meaning.
This book also is a loving reminder not to take everything for granted, or at least a loving nudge towards a conversation about it with the children.
February 21, 2024
Lights Along the River is a delightful story about a small town getting electricity and the author's memory of it. The illustrations are beautiful and help tell the story. I would recommend this book for kids ages 5 and up.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion.
March 7, 2024
This is such a cosy, heartwarming little story. Besides, it's actually inspired by the author's own life, hence the genuine feeling you get from the book. Set in 1952, the book shows you the daily life of an ordinary family while it's about to be changed for the better by this new technology of electricity. The illustrations are really lovely.
January 28, 2024
5 stars
I read a digital advance copy courtesy of the publisher and Edelweiss
It's 1952 and Patsy's small Canadian community is getting electricity! Patsy wonders if having electricity will change their lives!
I read a digital advance copy courtesy of the publisher and Edelweiss
It's 1952 and Patsy's small Canadian community is getting electricity! Patsy wonders if having electricity will change their lives!
February 8, 2024
This is such a cute tale from Patsy’s perspective on the day she and her family get electricity! Patsy, Elle and Bruce are such cute characters! It’s also informative for children as well as a good tale! The illustrations are perfect! Such a great little story!
March 22, 2024
This book hits close to home. Right in my own province. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the authors memories regarding electricity coming to her Ontario town in the 1950s. Crazy. Thank you for the story.
February 14, 2024
Lights along the River
by Pat Lamondin Skene
Electricity is a given to most children today. This book is a gift to the current generation showing the modern changes that only happened recently. They can see that only a generation ago did the change to lives happened with electricity and indoor plumbing.
by Pat Lamondin Skene
Electricity is a given to most children today. This book is a gift to the current generation showing the modern changes that only happened recently. They can see that only a generation ago did the change to lives happened with electricity and indoor plumbing.
July 31, 2024
The artwork in this picture book is so beautiful. This is a true story of a young Metis-French girl and her family when her small town gets electricity for the first time.
February 14, 2024
*Thank you to the author and publisher for providing me an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley*
So lovely. I loved this sweet story, and so pleased to get to the end and find it is nonfiction!!! That makes me love it even more.
So lovely. I loved this sweet story, and so pleased to get to the end and find it is nonfiction!!! That makes me love it even more.
March 3, 2024
I absolutely loved the illustrations in this book. I loved hearing all the information from the past and how things were before they got electricity. My only negative is that the storyline jumps around quite a bit and provides little details throughout that are seemingly random (even though realizing it’s a blast from the past with different facts being added in). Overall it was an interesting read though.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews