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Come Again, Pelican
From the creator of Corduroy, a newly restored classic picture book that celebrates a child’s bond with the natural world.
Every summer Ty’s family came to camp in their trailer at the same beautiful spot on the white sand dunes by the ocean. And every year, as long as Ty could remember, the same old pelican had welcomed them. This year, as soon as the trailer was parked, Ty pulled on his shiny red wading boots and ran with his fishing pole to look for his friend.
“Be sure not to lose those new boots of yours,” his father said. And Ty didn’t – not really. But by the time the tide had quietly crept in and as gently flowed out again, some surprising things had happened and both he and the pelican had made unexpected catches. What could they have been to make both boy and bird so happy when each swapped his catch with the other?
Pictures full of space and light and the shining colors of sky and sand and sea help to tell the delightful story of Ty's adventurous afternoon.
Every summer Ty’s family came to camp in their trailer at the same beautiful spot on the white sand dunes by the ocean. And every year, as long as Ty could remember, the same old pelican had welcomed them. This year, as soon as the trailer was parked, Ty pulled on his shiny red wading boots and ran with his fishing pole to look for his friend.
“Be sure not to lose those new boots of yours,” his father said. And Ty didn’t – not really. But by the time the tide had quietly crept in and as gently flowed out again, some surprising things had happened and both he and the pelican had made unexpected catches. What could they have been to make both boy and bird so happy when each swapped his catch with the other?
Pictures full of space and light and the shining colors of sky and sand and sea help to tell the delightful story of Ty's adventurous afternoon.
44 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1961
3324 people want to read
About the author
Don Freeman
310 books227 followersDon Freeman was a painter, printmaker, cartoonist, children's book author, and illustrator. He was born in San Diego, California, attended high school in Missouri, and later moved to New York City where he studied etching with John Sloan.
Frequent subjects included Broadway theatre, politics, and the circus. He was also a jazz musician, and the brother of circus entrepreneur Randy Freeman.
Frequent subjects included Broadway theatre, politics, and the circus. He was also a jazz musician, and the brother of circus entrepreneur Randy Freeman.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
January 21, 2024
5★
“ ‘I have a feeling I’m going to catch my first fish today,’ said Ty as he pulled on his new wading boots.”
Ty and his parents had just arrived at their usual camping spot, where, while Ty pulls on his bright red wading boots, the grown-ups contend with the trailer and awning.
“Each year they came to this same wind-swept beach for their summer vacation.”
Ty’s parents warned him to stay away from big waves and be sure not to lose his new boots.
He wondered if his pelican friend would still be there, and sure enough, he was waiting on the beach. They chatted to each other, as children and animals do, with Ty making conversation and the pelican looking pleased and squawking appreciatively now and then.
Ty saw sandpipers running up the beach to dig up little sand crabs, and he needed some bait, so he trotted off after them. But he wasn’t quick enough, so he sat down and thought maybe he could run faster without his boots on.
“The pelican waddled over and began squawking as if he were saying, ‘Follow me, follow me!’ ”
So Ty did, leaving his boots in the sand and clambering up to sit on the post the way the pelican does. Suddenly, the pelican took off into the air, flying around in circles.
“…then all at once he dived straight down, beak first— zoop!—“
He returned with a fish, but when Ty clapped his hands and shouted hooray, the pelican bobbed his head at Ty and the fish jumped out! Oh dear. Ty worried that the pelican lost his dinner. The pelican flew off, and as Ty sat and waited for him to come back, he looked down and saw the tide was coming in.
“When Ty looked down you can imagine his surprise at seeing one of his boots drifting by.”
He cast his line out far to try to catch it, but no luck. The second boot was floating closer to him and filling rapidly with water. He brought his line back and dropped his hook where the boot was sinking.
He carefully wiggled and jiggled his line, trying to hook the bootstrap, and when he did, Up came the boot.
“No fisherman could have been happier, because when he looked inside the boot, he saw a silvery fish splashing about.”
He was delighted with the fish, which he put in his pail, but he was worried about his other boot and whether or not he’d see the pelican again.
“He walked along the water’s edge searching for his other boot, but it was nowhere to be found.”
Poor Ty felt sad when his father called him to say supper was ready. Up the dunes he trudged, one bare foot, one boot foot.
“But at the very top, who do you suppose was waiting for him?”
Mr Pelican, of course.
“ ‘Well, Mr. Pelican, I’ve had a busy afternoon,’ said Ty. ‘Where under the sun have you been?’
The pelican just grinned. He didn’t even squawk.
Then suddenly, he opened his great big bill and there inside was Ty’s other boot!”
Ty knew just how to say thank you.
“ ‘Here’s my first fish and it’s specially for you!’ ”
That evening at supper, when Ty’s parents asked him about his day, he was able to tell them what he had learned. (But he neglected to mention the lost boot or his first fish. Would they have believed him?)
“ ‘Oh, I learned all about the tide,’ Ty said, ‘how it comes and goes and then comes again— just like my pelican friend.’ ”
What a treat! This was written in 1961 and is being re-released in May 2024. I fully expect there to be some nervous parents and some eager little boys and girls, desperate to go the beach alone to go fishing. Wait till mother and father see this chap sitting atop a post out in the water!
It’s delightful. Thanks to #NetGalley for the preview copy of #ComeBackPelican for review from which I’ve shared some quotes and illustrations.
“ ‘I have a feeling I’m going to catch my first fish today,’ said Ty as he pulled on his new wading boots.”
Ty and his parents had just arrived at their usual camping spot, where, while Ty pulls on his bright red wading boots, the grown-ups contend with the trailer and awning.
“Each year they came to this same wind-swept beach for their summer vacation.”
Ty’s parents warned him to stay away from big waves and be sure not to lose his new boots.
He wondered if his pelican friend would still be there, and sure enough, he was waiting on the beach. They chatted to each other, as children and animals do, with Ty making conversation and the pelican looking pleased and squawking appreciatively now and then.
Ty saw sandpipers running up the beach to dig up little sand crabs, and he needed some bait, so he trotted off after them. But he wasn’t quick enough, so he sat down and thought maybe he could run faster without his boots on.
“The pelican waddled over and began squawking as if he were saying, ‘Follow me, follow me!’ ”
So Ty did, leaving his boots in the sand and clambering up to sit on the post the way the pelican does. Suddenly, the pelican took off into the air, flying around in circles.
“…then all at once he dived straight down, beak first— zoop!—“
He returned with a fish, but when Ty clapped his hands and shouted hooray, the pelican bobbed his head at Ty and the fish jumped out! Oh dear. Ty worried that the pelican lost his dinner. The pelican flew off, and as Ty sat and waited for him to come back, he looked down and saw the tide was coming in.
“When Ty looked down you can imagine his surprise at seeing one of his boots drifting by.”
He cast his line out far to try to catch it, but no luck. The second boot was floating closer to him and filling rapidly with water. He brought his line back and dropped his hook where the boot was sinking.
He carefully wiggled and jiggled his line, trying to hook the bootstrap, and when he did, Up came the boot.
“No fisherman could have been happier, because when he looked inside the boot, he saw a silvery fish splashing about.”
He was delighted with the fish, which he put in his pail, but he was worried about his other boot and whether or not he’d see the pelican again.
“He walked along the water’s edge searching for his other boot, but it was nowhere to be found.”
Poor Ty felt sad when his father called him to say supper was ready. Up the dunes he trudged, one bare foot, one boot foot.
“But at the very top, who do you suppose was waiting for him?”
Mr Pelican, of course.
“ ‘Well, Mr. Pelican, I’ve had a busy afternoon,’ said Ty. ‘Where under the sun have you been?’
The pelican just grinned. He didn’t even squawk.
Then suddenly, he opened his great big bill and there inside was Ty’s other boot!”
Ty knew just how to say thank you.
“ ‘Here’s my first fish and it’s specially for you!’ ”
That evening at supper, when Ty’s parents asked him about his day, he was able to tell them what he had learned. (But he neglected to mention the lost boot or his first fish. Would they have believed him?)
“ ‘Oh, I learned all about the tide,’ Ty said, ‘how it comes and goes and then comes again— just like my pelican friend.’ ”
What a treat! This was written in 1961 and is being re-released in May 2024. I fully expect there to be some nervous parents and some eager little boys and girls, desperate to go the beach alone to go fishing. Wait till mother and father see this chap sitting atop a post out in the water!
It’s delightful. Thanks to #NetGalley for the preview copy of #ComeBackPelican for review from which I’ve shared some quotes and illustrations.
May 6, 2024
This book was absolutely GORGEOUS. The artwork was gentle, the colors vibrant and beautiful, the storyline simple, but sweet and to the point.
This book is a treasure that I can see being a gift for a baby shower or birthday for a little one. This is a classic.
It took me a short forever to figure out how to download it but I am incredibly glad that I did. This is one I will be recommending to all of our customers and it will be a gift for all of the little ones of my friends. (I LOVE to spoil the children of my friends with books. This is one I will be adding to that list of "must-get" for them!)
5, this was stunning and just what I needed right now, stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and Plough Publishing House for an eARC to read and review.
This book is a treasure that I can see being a gift for a baby shower or birthday for a little one. This is a classic.
It took me a short forever to figure out how to download it but I am incredibly glad that I did. This is one I will be recommending to all of our customers and it will be a gift for all of the little ones of my friends. (I LOVE to spoil the children of my friends with books. This is one I will be adding to that list of "must-get" for them!)
5, this was stunning and just what I needed right now, stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and Plough Publishing House for an eARC to read and review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2024
Special thanks to Plough Publishing for rereleasing this picture-book gem by Don Freeman, the award-winning author of Corduroy.
Young Ty, returning to the Indiana Dunes for his summer vacation, hopes to once again spot his beloved pelican. Not only does he meet his pelican pal, the two have a wonderful adventure, which I won’t ruin with more details. The dreamy illustrations add to the magic of Freeman’s prose. Highly, highly recommended.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Plough Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Young Ty, returning to the Indiana Dunes for his summer vacation, hopes to once again spot his beloved pelican. Not only does he meet his pelican pal, the two have a wonderful adventure, which I won’t ruin with more details. The dreamy illustrations add to the magic of Freeman’s prose. Highly, highly recommended.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Plough Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2024
Come Again, Pelican is a small story filled with a wonderful friendship that children will love and adults will enjoy as they read the story to their children.
The story revolves around Ty who on his yearly family vacation is eager to meet his friend a pelican.
The artwork (illustrations) is beautifully "soft" much like the tone of the story. The illustrations also give the child much to look at and discuss during the reading, turning this 44 page marvel into a fun memory both will enjoy over and over.
The colors are also used "softly" creating a kind of dream state that makes the looking at the illustrations very easy going and enjoyable.
Plough Publishing (in my experience) has a natural touch for not just publishing books but touching us in many ways with their stories. This is another example of their publications that will come to hold a place as being more than a read but more of an experience for everyone reading it.
A solid recommendation for those looking for a little more than just a read.
The story revolves around Ty who on his yearly family vacation is eager to meet his friend a pelican.
The artwork (illustrations) is beautifully "soft" much like the tone of the story. The illustrations also give the child much to look at and discuss during the reading, turning this 44 page marvel into a fun memory both will enjoy over and over.
The colors are also used "softly" creating a kind of dream state that makes the looking at the illustrations very easy going and enjoyable.
Plough Publishing (in my experience) has a natural touch for not just publishing books but touching us in many ways with their stories. This is another example of their publications that will come to hold a place as being more than a read but more of an experience for everyone reading it.
A solid recommendation for those looking for a little more than just a read.
March 30, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this book for free in exchange for my review! All opinions are my own.
As a child, I really loved the story of Cordorory, so I knew I had to read this book. This book was very charming and like it's predecessor, it gave me all the feels. This is a must purchase childrens book. Parents, librarians, teachers, etc, go out and buy this book for the child in your life. You won't regret it!
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As a child, I really loved the story of Cordorory, so I knew I had to read this book. This book was very charming and like it's predecessor, it gave me all the feels. This is a must purchase childrens book. Parents, librarians, teachers, etc, go out and buy this book for the child in your life. You won't regret it!
–
Connect with Me <3
My blog is https://bookreviewsbyjules.blogspot.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/4... (follow me and/or send a friend request!) - This is how I keep track of all of the books I read each year. I also crosspost all of my NetGalley reviews here.
Instagram/bookstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookreviews... (I try my best to follow back all Book accounts back in 48-72 hours)
2nd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookreviews... (This account is used as a backup Instagram because my original bookstagram account which I created in 2022 has been getting action blocked quite frequently (I was hacked in February 2024 and lost access to my account for about 5 days, and I think that has something do with why I have been having issues with my account. I have reported the issue to Instagram several times). I try to post on Instagram at least 3x a week. I post many NetGalley ARC books on Instagram, but I also enjoy talking about previously released books that I love. With the exception of NetGalley books, I enjoy both listening to and reading all the books I read.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
Substack: https://bookreviewsbyjules.substack.com/ (feel free to subscribe!)
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookreviewsby...
StoryGraph: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile...
May 7, 2024
I loved Corduroy so much, so I was so excited to see this new [to me] book by Don Freeman as an ARC. I had no idea this was originally published in 1961!! How lovely that a new generation is going to get a restored edition to enjoy!
This is a lovely, sweet book about red boots, fishing , and unexpected friendships [and that is all you need to know going into this delightful story] and will bring smiles from the very first page.
With gorgeous watercolor illustrations, this is just a fantastic feel-good read that the whole family will love and will want to revisit over and over again.
Thank you to NetGalley, Don Freeman, and Plough Publishing House for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a lovely, sweet book about red boots, fishing , and unexpected friendships [and that is all you need to know going into this delightful story] and will bring smiles from the very first page.
With gorgeous watercolor illustrations, this is just a fantastic feel-good read that the whole family will love and will want to revisit over and over again.
Thank you to NetGalley, Don Freeman, and Plough Publishing House for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 25, 2024
First published January 1, 1961
The young one goes fishing but seems to lose his boots. He finds one, but the pelican finds the other. What comes next is a big surprise!
The illustrations by the author are clear, imaginative, colorful, informative, and FUN.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or your local public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Plough Publishing | Plough Publishing House via NetGalley. Thank you!
Available 07 May 2024
The young one goes fishing but seems to lose his boots. He finds one, but the pelican finds the other. What comes next is a big surprise!
The illustrations by the author are clear, imaginative, colorful, informative, and FUN.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age including ESL, and great for gifting to anyone, but especially to a school or your local public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Plough Publishing | Plough Publishing House via NetGalley. Thank you!
Available 07 May 2024
March 29, 2024
Come Again, Pelican is a high quality children's picture book. It's been fully restored to its former glory, filled with delightful illustrations on every page—of the sea, the shore, the sky, a little boy named Ty and his pelican friend. Don Freeman (of Corduroy and Norman the Doorman fame) wrote and illustrated Come Again, Pelican.
There is an actual plot, unlike so many children's picture books today: On a camping trip to the seaside with his parents, Ty goes off to fish for the first time. His parents warn him not to lose his new wading boots and to be careful of big waves. So there is some tension and a little hint of danger involved in this adventure, with nature both befriending him (the pelican) and showing her strength and daily rhythms (the tides).
Being so young, Ty isn’t paying attention to the tide and gets in a bit of a jam. I love that he doesn’t panic, but keeps fairly level-headed and resourceful; he is able to solve part of his problems on his own. And his pelican friend helps him out with the rest.
If a parent or grandparent is looking for a moral to the story, there are several including: paying attention to natural rhythms like tides for one’s own safety; being kind and befriending animals; adventures in nature are a way to learn more about oneself and one’s surroundings...And I’m sure you could find others if you looked.
Come Again, Pelican warmed my heart not only with its story, but with its beautiful illustrations as well. The sky is particularly gorgeous on each page: colors are richly varied from dark gray-blue to yellow, pink, orange, red, and even purple.
If you’ve got a young child in your life, this would make a beautiful gift. The recommended age group is 7-9 yrs or 2nd-4th grade. I think it depends on the child and their attention span. I would’ve read this book to my kids at age 3 or 4 all the way up to age 6 or 7, but we had a lot of read-aloud time at home.
Come Again, Pelican is being published on May 7, 2024 by Plough Publishing and I hope you’ll consider purchasing a copy for the young kids in your life, for your local library, or for yourself if you love quality children’s picture books as much as I do. Highly recommended!
Thank you to Plough Publishing for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There is an actual plot, unlike so many children's picture books today: On a camping trip to the seaside with his parents, Ty goes off to fish for the first time. His parents warn him not to lose his new wading boots and to be careful of big waves. So there is some tension and a little hint of danger involved in this adventure, with nature both befriending him (the pelican) and showing her strength and daily rhythms (the tides).
Being so young, Ty isn’t paying attention to the tide and gets in a bit of a jam. I love that he doesn’t panic, but keeps fairly level-headed and resourceful; he is able to solve part of his problems on his own. And his pelican friend helps him out with the rest.
If a parent or grandparent is looking for a moral to the story, there are several including: paying attention to natural rhythms like tides for one’s own safety; being kind and befriending animals; adventures in nature are a way to learn more about oneself and one’s surroundings...And I’m sure you could find others if you looked.
Come Again, Pelican warmed my heart not only with its story, but with its beautiful illustrations as well. The sky is particularly gorgeous on each page: colors are richly varied from dark gray-blue to yellow, pink, orange, red, and even purple.
If you’ve got a young child in your life, this would make a beautiful gift. The recommended age group is 7-9 yrs or 2nd-4th grade. I think it depends on the child and their attention span. I would’ve read this book to my kids at age 3 or 4 all the way up to age 6 or 7, but we had a lot of read-aloud time at home.
Come Again, Pelican is being published on May 7, 2024 by Plough Publishing and I hope you’ll consider purchasing a copy for the young kids in your life, for your local library, or for yourself if you love quality children’s picture books as much as I do. Highly recommended!
Thank you to Plough Publishing for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2024
COME AGAIN, PELICAN by Don Freeman, 1961
This luminous portrayal of a young boy’s discoveries in the natural world evokes personal associations in each reader. Those who can remember childhood in mid-century America have a different lens than many children and adults now who are surrounded with thousands of images that flow quickly away. The portrayal of a child’s fulfilling day of fishing with a pelican guide affirms how wonderful it is to be alive in a beautiful world. The artist/writer who created this experience leaves each of us to reflect on what it says about our own place in our world now.
Some older adults might experience nostalgia for a world of childhood freedom, exploration, and
independence with a bedrock of security from adults. The ideas of personal responsibility instilled in children in families sitting down to supper together will resonate. Perhaps it is a dream vision of what childhood should hold, as well as a nostalgic recreation of a way of life that seems better in
memory—but in truth only for some.
This interplay centers on a young boy in a solitary but exciting setting where his responsibility for cause and effect holds life lessons but no terror. When his parents ask what he has learned that day, he says that the tide comes and goes and then comes again. The temporary loss of his new boot seems less important than the rhythm of nature he has experienced. While the language and word choice evoke an earlier time, the illustrations themselves are a glorious text that envelope both reader and viewer.
As we enter into this bright world, some might recall the ancient Christ symbol of the pelican, whose cry invites the boy to follow and watch how he fishes. The title itself might suggest the ancient prayer Come Lord Jesus. Clearly, this story is universal and embodies truths for people of all faiths or philosophies. Its celebration of beauty where creatures share the delights of nature’s gifts creates a vision of our yearning, a world made whole.
This luminous portrayal of a young boy’s discoveries in the natural world evokes personal associations in each reader. Those who can remember childhood in mid-century America have a different lens than many children and adults now who are surrounded with thousands of images that flow quickly away. The portrayal of a child’s fulfilling day of fishing with a pelican guide affirms how wonderful it is to be alive in a beautiful world. The artist/writer who created this experience leaves each of us to reflect on what it says about our own place in our world now.
Some older adults might experience nostalgia for a world of childhood freedom, exploration, and
independence with a bedrock of security from adults. The ideas of personal responsibility instilled in children in families sitting down to supper together will resonate. Perhaps it is a dream vision of what childhood should hold, as well as a nostalgic recreation of a way of life that seems better in
memory—but in truth only for some.
This interplay centers on a young boy in a solitary but exciting setting where his responsibility for cause and effect holds life lessons but no terror. When his parents ask what he has learned that day, he says that the tide comes and goes and then comes again. The temporary loss of his new boot seems less important than the rhythm of nature he has experienced. While the language and word choice evoke an earlier time, the illustrations themselves are a glorious text that envelope both reader and viewer.
As we enter into this bright world, some might recall the ancient Christ symbol of the pelican, whose cry invites the boy to follow and watch how he fishes. The title itself might suggest the ancient prayer Come Lord Jesus. Clearly, this story is universal and embodies truths for people of all faiths or philosophies. Its celebration of beauty where creatures share the delights of nature’s gifts creates a vision of our yearning, a world made whole.
February 4, 2024
If anyone else has recently been stuck in the house for days by snow and ice, then they may also enjoy this refreshing glimpse of a simple seaside vacation. Ty (seen here on the cover) and his family bring their trailer to the same spot on the beach each summer. This year he is old enough to try and catch his first fish. He pulls on his new red wading boots and sets off as his parents set up their campsite. Ty greets his friend the pelican who is resting on the same post as when Ty saw him last summer.
The illustrations capture the warm colors of the sand and sun, the cool blue of the water, and the open expanse of the sky over the waves. Scenes show Toby sprinting along after a line of sandpipers with their "speedy legs" scissoring back and forth, or his pelican friend diving "beak first" into the waves to scoop up a fish. Readers will be as dismayed as Toby when they see his new boots carried off by the rising tide. A look underwater shows fish and crabs gathered curiously around one of the lost boots.
Originally published in 1961, this classic from the creator of Corduroy has been restored and will be released on May 7, 2024 - just in time for summer vacation. The elements of the story are timeless - kids, fishing, summer at the beach with family, camping out, and being warned not to lose a new article of clothing - and the story and illustrations have held up remarkably well. Young readers today will enjoy this glimpse into learning a new skill, revisiting a favorite place, and enjoying a day in nature.
The illustrations capture the warm colors of the sand and sun, the cool blue of the water, and the open expanse of the sky over the waves. Scenes show Toby sprinting along after a line of sandpipers with their "speedy legs" scissoring back and forth, or his pelican friend diving "beak first" into the waves to scoop up a fish. Readers will be as dismayed as Toby when they see his new boots carried off by the rising tide. A look underwater shows fish and crabs gathered curiously around one of the lost boots.
Originally published in 1961, this classic from the creator of Corduroy has been restored and will be released on May 7, 2024 - just in time for summer vacation. The elements of the story are timeless - kids, fishing, summer at the beach with family, camping out, and being warned not to lose a new article of clothing - and the story and illustrations have held up remarkably well. Young readers today will enjoy this glimpse into learning a new skill, revisiting a favorite place, and enjoying a day in nature.
May 24, 2023
Freeman’s charming tale of a young fisherman and his pelican friend made quite the impression on my preschooler’s brain when it first came out in 1961. Whether it was Freeman’s softly rendered beach scenes, the tension-filled story of Ty’s new red boot being washed out to sea, or the incredibly satisfying ending, this story and its illustrations have lurked in my memories for decades. One illustration in particular, that of an illuminated window in the family’s trailer at night, must have triggered some deeply-buried archetype as it captured my attention for hours. I still remember it making me feel cozy, and pleasurably sober, and intrigued - what’s behind that window?! I WANT TO KNOW. Sixty two (62!) years later, I’m still charmed by this book.
5 stars for the strange 2023 PopSugar Reading Challenge category of Book you wish you could read for the first time. I guess I chose this because if I was reading this for the first time, I would probably be a three-year-old snuggled up with my mother or father and listening to a good story, and that wonderful thought makes me want to cry in a good way. Can you imagine going back and experiencing that bit of your life again? Also fits 52 BC’s Shortest book on your TBR list.
5 stars for the strange 2023 PopSugar Reading Challenge category of Book you wish you could read for the first time. I guess I chose this because if I was reading this for the first time, I would probably be a three-year-old snuggled up with my mother or father and listening to a good story, and that wonderful thought makes me want to cry in a good way. Can you imagine going back and experiencing that bit of your life again? Also fits 52 BC’s Shortest book on your TBR list.
March 28, 2024
I've always loved Don Freeman's books and have found them particularly enjoyable while sharing them with my children and grandchildren. I was pleasantly surprised to find he'd recently written another one and was privileged to receive a complimentary review copy from Plough Publishing.
This story is fairly short and sweet. It's a story about a young boy named Ty and his family visit to the beach.
When Ty arrives at the beach, he's excited to be in a familiar place and immediately goes off to look for his favorite bird, a large pelican.
As Ty continues his adventure, the story takes an unexpected turn where both Ty and the bird share a special exchange.
The story focuses on important character values such as kindness, patience, and diligence.
I think children of all ages will enjoy this book but especially those between the ages of 3 and 10.
I can't wait to read this book to my granddaughter, Heather, who loves not only the beach but also wildlife. I think she'll relate to the story well and enjoy learning how Ty and the Pelican help each other.
Thank you, Plough Publishing, for allowing me to review this book in exchange for my honest review. It was my pleasure to read it.
Bonnie Annis
This story is fairly short and sweet. It's a story about a young boy named Ty and his family visit to the beach.
When Ty arrives at the beach, he's excited to be in a familiar place and immediately goes off to look for his favorite bird, a large pelican.
As Ty continues his adventure, the story takes an unexpected turn where both Ty and the bird share a special exchange.
The story focuses on important character values such as kindness, patience, and diligence.
I think children of all ages will enjoy this book but especially those between the ages of 3 and 10.
I can't wait to read this book to my granddaughter, Heather, who loves not only the beach but also wildlife. I think she'll relate to the story well and enjoy learning how Ty and the Pelican help each other.
Thank you, Plough Publishing, for allowing me to review this book in exchange for my honest review. It was my pleasure to read it.
Bonnie Annis
May 7, 2024
A welcome reprint for this quaint little charmer – Ty is a young fisherman whose parents always lodge their caravan on the same dunes each year, but this year is different – the lad is going to actually land a fish for the first time. Rod and bucket in hand he greets the same (?) stately pelican as he met the previous year, and tries to gain some of the bird's knowledge. It doesn't exactly come to plan, though – for either of them...
Yes, this is showing its vintage a bit now, but not in any bad ways, leaving all the benefits to shine. The moral is obvious and light, the comedy the same, the twist ending (if you need to call it that) a very warm-hearted one. Principally I think the strength is in the visuals – coloured pencil or whatever was responsible was used very well indeed, giving character to the lad, speed to the sandpipers on the shoreline and no end of majestic light to the skies. Throughout it can teach many modern generations of children's book creators a thing or ten, so it is more than welcome that this particular pelican has indeed come back (although how you tell one from another after a gap of a year is beyond me…). It's a quickly-read glory, and just a smidge of plumminess means it's resting at the four and a half star mark.
Yes, this is showing its vintage a bit now, but not in any bad ways, leaving all the benefits to shine. The moral is obvious and light, the comedy the same, the twist ending (if you need to call it that) a very warm-hearted one. Principally I think the strength is in the visuals – coloured pencil or whatever was responsible was used very well indeed, giving character to the lad, speed to the sandpipers on the shoreline and no end of majestic light to the skies. Throughout it can teach many modern generations of children's book creators a thing or ten, so it is more than welcome that this particular pelican has indeed come back (although how you tell one from another after a gap of a year is beyond me…). It's a quickly-read glory, and just a smidge of plumminess means it's resting at the four and a half star mark.
May 8, 2024
Don Freeman's 'Come Again, Pelican' is about a boy named Ty and his family who spend the summer camping on a beach in their trailer. Ty is now old enough to go fishing on his own. Every summer, Ty wonders if the old pelican will still be there. Ty puts on his new red boots, grabs his fishing pole and pail and heads to the ocean. He is delighted to see the pelican. In order to see the fish, Ty takes off his boots and climbs up one of the posts, just like the pelican. In the midst of catching fish, the boy does not realize that the tide is rolling in. Upon coming in, it sweeps his boots into the ocean. He catches one with his fishing pole and one disappears from reach. The minute his father calls him for dinner, he knows he will not be happy that he lost one of his new boots. But...
My favorite part of this book is how it ends. Don Freeman has written the best-selling book 'Corduroy', which has been loved by millions. I am sure you will fall in love with this book as well if you haven't already read it. I absolutely love the illustrations. This is a book everyone should have on their bookshelf.
My favorite part of this book is how it ends. Don Freeman has written the best-selling book 'Corduroy', which has been loved by millions. I am sure you will fall in love with this book as well if you haven't already read it. I absolutely love the illustrations. This is a book everyone should have on their bookshelf.
March 31, 2024
“Come Again, Pelican” is an adorable story about young Ty and his adventure of learning to fish for the first time. Just like last summer vacation, Ty’s pelican friend waits for him, standing atop a post by the water, and they learn a thing or two from each other.
I love the gentle and nostalgic storytelling, and the delightful drawings that illustrate the story in this 1961 classic. And the unexpected end of his fishing trip gave me a chuckle and made me smile.
From the author of Corduroy, this heartwarming story of friendship is sure to charm you and your young readers. A wonderful addition to any child’s or grandparent’s library.
First Line: “I have a feeling I’m going to catch my first fish today,” said Ty as he pulled on his new wading boots.
Genre: Children
Author: Don Freeman
Page Count: 44
Reading Age: 7-9
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
I love the gentle and nostalgic storytelling, and the delightful drawings that illustrate the story in this 1961 classic. And the unexpected end of his fishing trip gave me a chuckle and made me smile.
From the author of Corduroy, this heartwarming story of friendship is sure to charm you and your young readers. A wonderful addition to any child’s or grandparent’s library.
First Line: “I have a feeling I’m going to catch my first fish today,” said Ty as he pulled on his new wading boots.
Genre: Children
Author: Don Freeman
Page Count: 44
Reading Age: 7-9
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
May 19, 2024
"Come Again, Pelican" by Don Freeman is a beautifully illustrated classic picture book, set on the high, rolling sand dunes on a windswept beach. It is the charming story of a Pelican and a dear little boy named Ty. The colorful, eye-catching pages create the gusty ambience of a windswept beach, with sandpipers digging for sand crabs. It brings you close to the heart of nature, set deep within the heart of a book. It is full of space, with the display of light on sky and sea delightfully captured in fascinating color.
This classic picture book celebrates a child’s deep bond with the natural world. The white sand dunes by the ocean, and the shining colors of sky and sea tell the delightful story of the ocean's tidal waves and their impact on one excited little fisherboy in the delightful company of nature's best fisher pelican. The story is told with simplicity, humor, and originality. The inspiring illustrations and original artwork blend into the text to make every little child's dream come true. Get your own copy quickly!
February 11, 2024
My rating: 3.5/5
Having originally been released in 1961, "Come Again, Pelican" through Plough Publishing, has a new lease on life for the newest generation. And generations to come I'm sure.
Come Again, Pelican, with it's lovely illustrations by Don Freeman, who also wrote the picture book, is sure to draw in the youngin's.
Following Ty, he and his family are back at their vacation home on the beach, and off Ty goes in his new red, wadding boots to go fishing.
Testing his boundaries, Ty ventures further than he's allowed, while the Pelican from the year before.
Without spoiling the whole story, it's only 44 pages, Come Again, Pelican is about young children exploring, and testing the boundaries of his world.
*Thank you to Plough Publishing for inviting me to read and review Come Again, Pelican. My review is of my own thoughts and opinions.*
Having originally been released in 1961, "Come Again, Pelican" through Plough Publishing, has a new lease on life for the newest generation. And generations to come I'm sure.
Come Again, Pelican, with it's lovely illustrations by Don Freeman, who also wrote the picture book, is sure to draw in the youngin's.
Following Ty, he and his family are back at their vacation home on the beach, and off Ty goes in his new red, wadding boots to go fishing.
Testing his boundaries, Ty ventures further than he's allowed, while the Pelican from the year before.
Without spoiling the whole story, it's only 44 pages, Come Again, Pelican is about young children exploring, and testing the boundaries of his world.
*Thank you to Plough Publishing for inviting me to read and review Come Again, Pelican. My review is of my own thoughts and opinions.*
March 28, 2024
How many of us return to a 'special place' hoping to see, once again, a particular object that stuck in our memory? It happens more often than one would think it would.
In this book, Ty's family returns to the beach every summer in their quaint trailer to relax and play on the beach. Ty is their excitement-filled child who remembers exactly why he loves the ocean, and is keeping his fingers crossed that the pelican he said good-bye to the summer before is still there.
His attention is all about fishing, yet thoughts are complicated by the new red wading boots he's wearing that his father warned he must not lose. The adventure that unfolds is nothing less than pure magic. Every color-filled page of this book is bright and helps make the story feel so believable. There's no "allow yourself to be swept away" comment for this story ... it will happen automatically. Enjoy!
In this book, Ty's family returns to the beach every summer in their quaint trailer to relax and play on the beach. Ty is their excitement-filled child who remembers exactly why he loves the ocean, and is keeping his fingers crossed that the pelican he said good-bye to the summer before is still there.
His attention is all about fishing, yet thoughts are complicated by the new red wading boots he's wearing that his father warned he must not lose. The adventure that unfolds is nothing less than pure magic. Every color-filled page of this book is bright and helps make the story feel so believable. There's no "allow yourself to be swept away" comment for this story ... it will happen automatically. Enjoy!
March 15, 2024
From the author of Corduroy, and Plough Publishing, comes a newly restored classic about a boy's connection with nature and the special friend that he makes along the way. The words mirror the illustrations just as the illustrations mirror the words taking readers on a bright and colorful journey of a child's day at the beach. This is such a sweet and wholesome story for young readers, but also readers of any age, as a reminder of how whimsical a day at the beach can truly be. I never had the opportunity to read this book as a child, but it felt so familiar with the cadence of the words and a similar tone of the art to that of Corduroy given that the author wrote both.
This review is thanks to Plough Publishing & NetGalley for providing an ARC.
This review is thanks to Plough Publishing & NetGalley for providing an ARC.
March 21, 2024
3 stars
I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This is a republishing of a 1961 children's picture book about a boy on vacation and a pelican, of course. It's a simple cute story about friendship in a way. But the age is showing...
It might be nostalgic for some people, but for me personally it just felt outdated, story-wise and illustration-wise. Although I did appreciate the traditional way to colour the illustrations, but the drawings per se are a tad bit old too.
Does that mean it will not translate to the kids? It will probably not be a favourite as the illustrations are rather stiff, but they will have a laugh or two.
I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This is a republishing of a 1961 children's picture book about a boy on vacation and a pelican, of course. It's a simple cute story about friendship in a way. But the age is showing...
It might be nostalgic for some people, but for me personally it just felt outdated, story-wise and illustration-wise. Although I did appreciate the traditional way to colour the illustrations, but the drawings per se are a tad bit old too.
Does that mean it will not translate to the kids? It will probably not be a favourite as the illustrations are rather stiff, but they will have a laugh or two.
May 13, 2024
A sweet and enchanting children's story by the author of the beloved Corduroy books. Pelican is a story about a boy and a pelican, but it's about more. It's about how acts of kindness can cause ripple effects. It's also about respecting all of nature and God's creatures and the bond that every living thing on earth shares. The illustrations are lovely too. It's definitely a book to read and reread with a story that can be enjoyed by kids of all ages.
Thank you Plough Publishing for bringing this book back for another generation to enjoy.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you Plough Publishing for bringing this book back for another generation to enjoy.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 5, 2024
I thank Plough for an advanced reader's copy of this book! The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
My youngest has always loved Corduroy, and I was excited to get my hands on this book. It did not disappoint! The illustrations are fantastic, and the story is great! It was a short and simple story about a child and his connection to nature. I often wonder what animals are thinking when we talk to them. This book involved a conversation with an old and wise pelican. The end of the book made me smile. I think this is a great book to add to a child's library.
My youngest has always loved Corduroy, and I was excited to get my hands on this book. It did not disappoint! The illustrations are fantastic, and the story is great! It was a short and simple story about a child and his connection to nature. I often wonder what animals are thinking when we talk to them. This book involved a conversation with an old and wise pelican. The end of the book made me smile. I think this is a great book to add to a child's library.
March 19, 2024
Thank you to Plough for my copy of this beautiful reissue of a delightful classic. 'Matter of fact, reading it with morning tea, the colors of the art and gentle simplicity of the story made me forget that my years at the shore, camping with my folks, weren't like this BUT I was moving into my teen years, much older than Ty. OH! To have a friend like the pelican, but I do have friends with very young kids, and again than you to Plough for now allowing me to share this charming story of friendship with their little ones.
April 13, 2024
Once again, Ty's family is vacationing at the beach, and Ty is excited to learn to fish. He starts by watching the old pelican who is always waiting on the old pier, but Ty doesn't account for the tide, and soon he has more than just fish to catch.
This is a charming story with simple style and classic illustrations. The ending made me smile, and even though there's a lot of text at the beginning, which ensures it takes a while for the story to get started, it's well worth the wait.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
This is a charming story with simple style and classic illustrations. The ending made me smile, and even though there's a lot of text at the beginning, which ensures it takes a while for the story to get started, it's well worth the wait.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
May 18, 2024
I'm so glad this fun book has been reissued to enchant a whole new audience. It's a sweet, simple tale of a boy who goes fishing, and comes home with a deeper understanding of the world around him. Freeman's illustrations are gorgeous. He captures both the lovely seascapes, and the endearing facial expressions of his main character.
This one is a treat for all ages.
Thanks to NetGalley and Plough Publishing for the read.
This one is a treat for all ages.
Thanks to NetGalley and Plough Publishing for the read.
March 18, 2024
Content: G
Back at the beach for the summer, Ty wants to catch his first fish today. Ty looks to his pelican friend for help and receives more than he hoped for.
Over the course of a single day, Ty loses and triumphs, learning little lessons from animals and about the ocean. Freeman captures the wonder of children and their innocent natures, trying so hard to do good. Also, the colorful illustrations are wonderful.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
Back at the beach for the summer, Ty wants to catch his first fish today. Ty looks to his pelican friend for help and receives more than he hoped for.
Over the course of a single day, Ty loses and triumphs, learning little lessons from animals and about the ocean. Freeman captures the wonder of children and their innocent natures, trying so hard to do good. Also, the colorful illustrations are wonderful.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
May 3, 2024
It's the first day of summer vacation for Ty and his family. He sets out in his orange wading boots to catch his first fish. His old friend Pelican is waiting by the water and ready to teach Ty a thing or two. Loved the beautiful watercolor illustrations with so many gorgeous sky variations. A future classic from the beloved author who brought us Corduroy.🐻
Thank you to Plough Publishing House and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Plough Publishing House and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2024
This charming picture book, from the creator of the children's classic Corduroy"Corderoy" is a sweet tale of a young boy and the nature that surrounds him. When he returns to the beach for their family's annual camping trip, he can't wait to try catching his first fish, and he hopes to see the friendly pelican. This sweet story shows him leaving his boots on the shore while he sits on a post from an old pier. Unaware of the rising tide, his boots float away. He and his friend end up trading their catch! The art is charming and new readers will enjoy this newly restored classic.
May 15, 2024
Love, love, loved this simple and sweet story about a boy gone fishing and his pal, the pelican. They have quite an adventure and reading all about it makes you smile right from the start. Plus, the illustrations are terrific and provide a vintage feel to the story. I really enjoyed reading about Ty and his pelican friend. Don Freeman, author of Corduroy, wrote a classic with this story. Such a sweet treat for children and adults to read.
January 7, 2024
This is a sweet and funny story, sparing with words and big with illustrations. The small boy, wise pelican and big shoreline are the stars.
I enjoyed the read, which would be suitable for early readers or for parents to read with children. Kids will learn about the shore and tides, and will probably want to read it over again.
I read an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
I enjoyed the read, which would be suitable for early readers or for parents to read with children. Kids will learn about the shore and tides, and will probably want to read it over again.
I read an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
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