A Windy Spring Day: God Gives Us Friends When We're Afraid

Tales of Buttercup Grove

by Wendy Dunham

A Windy Spring Day is one of four books in the Tales of  Buttercup Grove early reader series. When a hefty wind travels through Buttercup Grove, Skunk is frightened and calls on his good friend, Raccoon. Using his ingenuity, Raccoon teaches Skunk how to build a kite. Once built, Skunk and Raccoon invite the rest of their woodland friends to fly it with them. Through this windy journey, Skunk realizes that something once viewed as frightening can sometimes be transformed into a fun adventure. In the tradition of timeless classics such as The Tale of Peter Rabbit, The Many Adventures of the Winnie the Pooh,  and Frog and Toad, The Tales of Buttercup Groveseries introduces young readers, ages 3-7, to the many fun adventures of Skunk, Raccoon, and the rest of their woodland friends. Along the way, your child will learn timeless virtues, such as sharing, compassion, kindness, encouragement, and patience.

Genres: Childrens, Friendship

64 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 6, 2018

About the author

Wendy Dunham is the author of two middle-grade novels: My Name Is River (a 2016 Selah Awards finalist) and Hope Girl (2017 Selah Award winner for best middle grade novel). She is also the author of The Tales of Buttercup Grove series, for early readers ages 4-7. In the forthcoming book, Reagandoodle and Little Buddy: The True Story of a Labradoodle and His Toddler Best Friend, Wendy writes Sandy Swiridoff's story as the voice of Reagandoodle.

When she's writing, Wendy works as a registered therapist with children who have special needs.

Reviews

[Yibbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s a sweet story of friendship and caring. Raccoon is a wonderful example of a friend being there for his friend through thick and thin.
The last page includes an applicable Bible verse, but the parallels aren’t really drawn for you. You will have to figure out how it applies.
The illustrations were wonderful, cheerful, simple, and colorful.
I received this as a free ARC through NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers. No favorable review was required, and these are my honest opinions.

[Beyond the Pages with Eva K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick Summary: A fighting fear with friends children's fiction read

My Review: A Windy Spring Day: God Gives Us Friends When We're Afraid authored by Wendy Dunham and illustrated by Michal Sparks is associated with the Tales of Buttercup Grove series.

About the Book: Much like a Winnie the Pooh reader, this book introduces a cute and lovable character, along with his "we're all in this together" group of friends. The lead character, who just so happens to be a skunk, is frightened by a wind storm. He phones a friend for support. Thereafter, the friend comes over and spends time with the skunk. They engage in a wonderful arts and crafts project, which ultimately turns the negative experience into something positive.

My Final Say: Not only is this book about friends aiding a friend in need, but it is also about shifting thinking from negative to positive. I would definitely give this book my stamp to approval.

Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: Y
Series: Yes
Status: Elementary aged kids (grades 1-3)
Level: G
Illustrations: ⭐

Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Harvest House Publishers, Harvest Kids). Thanks for granting access to this title in exchange for an honest review.

[Laura Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Children are sometimes afraid of the elements, and in A Windy Spring Day, Skunk is terribly afraid of the wind outside his little house. He calls his wise friend, Raccoon, who knows exactly what Skunk needs-a friend, some, fun, and a distraction. Together they make a kite, and then call their other friends to come and share the fun together. Soon, Skunk forgets about his fear and enjoys flying his kite with the others-I love that they each take turns holding the kite! Michal Sparks' detailed artwork beautifully illustrates this story of fear and friendship, which concludes with a Bible verse on trusting God when we are afraid. I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.

[Lisa P Clement · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another cute book in this series. The characters are very well illustrated. I love the illustrations in this book. They are so whimsical.
The story is one of friendship and helping others when they are afraid. Instead of staying afraid one friend helps the other find a new way to see things.
Again this book ends with a bible verse. I love the way the author teaches simple truths in these cute stories.
I can't wait to share these with the little ones in my life.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.

[Emily Howell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a cute book about a great little friendship. One friend helps another overcome their fears. The illustrations in this books were so cute. I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. The opinion stated is my own.

[Karen R · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cute story about friendship for young readers in the vein of Frog and Toad.
This is a short tale about overcoming fear with friendship, capped off with a Bible verse.
"When I am afraid I will trust in You." Loved the sweet illustrations too.
Look forward to the rest of this fun series!

(An e-book was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)

[R.J. Rodda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a lovely feel to it, with a cute, engaging story. However the Scripture felt very much tacked on the end. Skunk learns to overcome his fear of the wind, not because of God but because of help from his friends.

Thanks to Netgalley for a providing a copy of this. The review is my own.

[Melissa Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Friendship and thoughtfulness are shared in this heartwarming story. Very sweet. I look forward to sharing this story with everyone, especially our grandson. I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my own personal opinion.

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.


About the Book:

A Blustery Day in Buttercup Grove

When a big wind goes whoosh, Skunk gets scared and could sure use a friend. Braving the storm to check on his best pal, Raccoon comes over for a visit and brings a big surprise—supplies to make a kite. Skunk and Raccoon work together to get the kite made and invite everyone in Buttercup Grove over to fly it, because some things are better to do with more than just two!

***
The Tales of Buttercup Grove series introduces young readers, ages 3-7, to the many fun adventures of Skunk, Raccoon, and the rest of their woodland friends. Along the way, your child will learn timeless Christian values, such as sharing, compassion, kindness, encouragement, and patience, and learn a key Bible verse at the end of each story.


My Review:

Poor skunk! He is deathly afraid of the wind as it kicks up one day. But he didn't have to be afraid or alone long. His friend Raccoon came to help sit it out with him. While they waited it out Raccoon brought some supplies and they worked on a great project that will help pass the time. Soon the two friends are immersed in this project and what a great thing that it turns out to be. So much so that they share it with all of Buttercup Grove.


These sweet little stories all combined in a precious book just perfect for my 8 yr old. We enjoy reading together the adventures of the woodland creatures from Buttercup Grove. Along the Christian values and a Bible verse for each story these are the most precious books.

[Psusan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Weather can be frightening to a child as in the case for skunk in A Windy Spring Day (God Gives Us Friends When We're Afraid) by Wendy Dunham. This quick reading book looks at friendship, sharing wisdom and seeing the things that cause us fear from a different perspective. Instead of lecturing skunk, raccoon provided what he needed to overcome his fear a windy day. It is simple story with great truths.

There is much to like about this book. The illustrations are gently colorful, not taking away from the text. It has short chapters with the illustrations reminiscence of the old silent movies signs. Then the text has raccoon coming up with an idea that is not given straight away, that would be intriguing for a young reader. I appreciated the verse at the end, perfect for this story but a truth that the reader can also claim. Also the text is repetitive for a young reader to be able to read independently at about the end of first grade. Though I found I enjoyed it as much as my grandchildren.

This is a wonderful glimpse into life in Buttercup Grove which is a whimsical place where animals live in harmony and friendship. This is a community that I hope will become a series since several animals were part of this story.

The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.

[Rachelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a precious Children's book. Beautifully written by Wendy Dunham and illustrated by Michal Sparks.

Skunk is home alone and frightened by the wind. He decides to call his good friend Raccoon, who knows exactly how to calm his friends fears. Raccoon gathers the necessary materials needed to make a kite and heads out to Skunks house. The two build the kite, call the rest of their friends, Mouse, Rabbit, Mole, Beaver and Fox, to share in the fun of flying it. The friends take turns flying the kite and Skunk is able to overcome his fear of the wind. At the end of the story is a Bible Verse, Psalm 56:3, showing us that when we are afraid, we can put our trust in God! I highly recommend this book to anyone with children or grandchildren.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.

[Kristin Demery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wendy Dunham’s new series for children, “Tales of Buttercup Grove,” is a charmingly illustrated duo featuring woodland characters. In “A Windy Spring Day,” Skunk is home alone on a blustery day and has to face his fear of the wind. Calling up his friend Raccoon, his friend surmises that he might need a bit of help. When Raccoon offers to come over and to bring a surprise, Skunk readily agrees. Young readers will delight in trying to figure out what exactly the surprise is.

My three young daughters and I really enjoyed this book. The illustrations are reminiscent of A. A. Milne's "Winnie the Pooh" books. The messages themselves, while simple on the surface, deal with more complex ideas like bravery, imagination, friendship, and care for others. A delightful addition to our home library.

*I received an advance copy from the publisher prior to this review. The opinions therein are my own.*

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Windy Spring Day is an inspiring tale of courage and friendship. The frightened skunk we meet in the beginning not only learns about courage, but friendship and hard work, too. My favorite part about this story was the care his friend Raccoon showed him, even though Raccoon didn't feel afraid or quite understand Skunk's feelings. The idea to focus on the positives that come from the wind, in the form of a project, is a great way to introduce a discussion with your kiddo about their fears. These friends from Buttercup Grove know each other well and support and care for each other in such a sweet way.

The illustrations were simple and adorable. I also noticed that contractions aren't used in this book, and it will be a great early reader for my preschooler when he's ready. My kids (2 and almost 5) loved it!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story is one of friendship and helping others when they are afraid. Instead of staying afraid one friend helps the other find a new way to see things. Children are sometimes afraid of things, and in A Windy Spring Day, Skunk is terribly afraid of the wind outside his little house. He calls Raccoon who knows exactly what Skunk needs-a friend, some, fun, and a distraction. Together they fly a kite and soon Skunk forgets about his fear and enjoys flying his kite with the others Michal Sparks' detailed artwork beautifully illustrates this story of fear and friendship, which concludes with a Bible verse on trusting God when we are afraid. I love the illustrations in this book. They are so whimsical.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Delightful Story

A Windy Spring Day: God Gives Us Friends When We're Afraid by Wendy Dunham is part of the Tales of Buttercup Grove series. It is a fun and delightful story that teaches children about friendship, God's care and protection. Children and families will enjoy this sweet story about Raccoon, Skunk, Rabbit, Beaver, Fox, Mouse, and Mole. A Windy Spring Day has lovely illustrations by Michal Sparks. This delightful story will certainly become a favorite. I very highly recommend A Windy Spring Day.

*I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of A Windy Spring Day: God Gives Us Friends When We're Afraid from the publisher. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.*

[Shannan Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the sweetest children's books that I have read. In this story Skunk is afraid of the wind and calls his friend Raccoon, Raccoon knows exactly what Skunk needs to feel better and not be afraid. As an adult I was able to resonate with this book as the wind is terrible where I live and I am sometimes afraid. I believe young children will really be able to relate to this cute story. I highly recommend this to everyone who is involved in young children's lives. Oh and the Bible verse at the end of the book related totally to the overall story. Was truly a wonderful read.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.*

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Windy Spring Day is one of the most precious books I read. I wish I had this when my son was growing up. He had the Veggie tales - loved them too but this one compares - it is big.....the pictures are incredible. They are crisp and clear and so cute. They talk about such important subjects that parents need to talk to their kids - fear - anxiety - true friendships - showed them how to take care of those problems - these things are absolutely wonderful - I love this book........I received a copy of this book from the Publisher and Netgalley; all of the opinions expressed in this review are all my own.

if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com - I look forward to seeing you there.

[Nam · Rating 1 out of 5]

Having grown up in a city where tornados are frequently destructive to the local population, I cannot justify reading this one to a child. The wind is described as so strong that it causes the house to shake, and Raccoon says that Skunk is afraid because he is silly. It is not silly to worry when the house shakes around you, and if the wind is that strong, it is silly to go out and fly a kite in it. If Skunk was exaggerating, Raccoon would not have agreed that his house was shaking. I would give this one zero stars if I could because this could be detrimental to the survival skills of children in my area or any other natural disaster-prone areas. Yes, one should have faith that things will be alright, but not at the expense of common sense.

[Another_Book_to_Ponder · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a cute book from the illustrations to the story! Reminds me of books from my childhood. I could see this set of books being treasured and passed down generation to generation and shared frequently.

This collection of books brings with them some lessons and openness for children to share... This book starts out with Skunk being scared and Racoon comes over to help him through it. Turns into an exciting windy day. Enjoy reading this with your littles. I can't wait for grandkids!

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.

[Christie Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cute and whimsical. I love how the characters support each other - they are such a wonderful example of true friendship! It makes me long for the simplicity of a childhood friends-group. Again, the words are well-chosen for the age (early reader). My family has been reading a lot of early reader books recently as we have a 6 year old, and it's hard to find books that tell a good story without using words that are too hard. That's a tough skill to master!

*I received a preview copy of this book, but I honestly really like it. My opinions are always my own (ask my husband about that 😜).

[Laura Stearns · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sweet story reminds me of the gift of friendship, especially during difficult times. This book is something that I look forward to reading to my children over and over again. I love that it teaches them life lessons about supporting others. The raccoons kind heart to bring the supplies to make a special project with his scared friend is my favorite part of the book! My family loves to fly kites so this is extra special! I highly recommend this book- it will warm the hearts of children and adults.

[Lauren DuPrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Windy Spring Day is the second book in the Tales of Buttercup Grove series by Wendy Dunham. This book focuses on Skunk who is home alone on a very windy day. The wind leaves him feeling afraid so he calls his friend Raccoon who comes to comfort him. When Raccoon arrives he has a fun surprise for Skunk that they invite all their friends to share in. This book concludes with the verse Psalm 56:3 which is one of my favorite verses. Psalm 56:3 states, "When I am afraid,I put my trust in you," (ESV). I love that this verse is so simple, even my daughter can memorize it. I love too that this verse points to God who is faithful and worthy of our trust. I really enjoyed A Windy Spring Day and look forward to reading the rest of the books in the Tales of Buttercup Grove series. 

I received A Windy Spring Day compliments of Harvest House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do you do when it's not the kind of day you wish it was? You talk to a friend. That's just what Skunk did in A Windy Spring Day by Wendy Dunham. Skunk's friend, Raccoon, helps Skunk through a scary time and shows him that a good friend will come along side you and help you see your problem from a different perspective. Delightful artwork by Michal Sparks engages beginner reader's imaginations about the memorable cast of characters in the Tales of Buttercup Grove.

[SJ_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This whole series is super cute, sweet, and wholesome. God is not mentioned at all in the books, but there is always a Bible verse at the end. This one had a Bible verse that didn't seem related to the book, since it talked about God, not about friends, which the story was more about. Still enjoyed it, recommend it, and will keep the series as part of our homeschooling library.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this children’s “chapter” picture book for early readers. Short easy to read sentences with engaging small illustrations on each page.

There was one line that was not very empathetic, but otherwise good messages.

This is a Christian book, apparently, but the only mention of anything religious was the scripture reference picture page at the end.

[Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a cute easy reader for young kids! Nice story about a little skunk who is afraid of the wind. His buddies come to the rescue and show him how fun a wind day can be! young kids will enjoy this. I think maybe it will make a nice gift for a Christian child as it ends with a Bible verse.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A super cute and fun book for my kindergarten daughter to read!!! Such a good lesson in friendship and caring. The illustrations are simple but colorful and very appealing! I love that it ends with a Bible verse that we can discuss and apply to life.

[Joanne Viola · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Windy Spring Day is the story of skunk, who is home alone and frightened by the strong winds. The friends come together to help skunk overcome his fears by engaging in a fun activity as a group. This story reinforces the concepts of friendship and learning from one another. The story ends with a Scripture, Psalm 56:3, to remind young listeners to place their trust in God whenever they are fearful.

Delightfully whimsical and sure to engage any young reader!
**I received both of these books in pdf form from the publisher in exchange for my honest review which has been my pleasure to give. Both of these books were a pleasure to read.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Want a great book for your young reader? Than you have come to the right place. This is a wonderful book with a great message and great for young children and early readers. All the books in this series are fabulous!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

The windy day addresses the problem of fear and how it can shut us down. Raccoon helps skunk to turn his fear into something to use for the whole gang to have fun. Such a cute little book with a powerful message.