Toni and the Dandelions

Deborah Dowson is a children’s librarian in Pickering, Ontario.

Dandelions are magical flowers whose arrival every spring is anticipated
with joy. However, since her father has decided to mow down the
dandelions this year, Toni faces the prospect of a spring without the
usual festivities. As Toni thinks about this, the lions in the mobile
above her bed lead her into a fantastic world of tree-sized dandelions.
Toni has a marvelous romp with the lions, and the King of Dandelions
ensures that she has enough dandelions this spring for a joyful
celebration.

The vocal and musical accompaniment provided by the cassette perfectly
emphasizes the mood and varying tempo of the story. Jim Codrington is
particularly impressive as the voice of Simon the lion. The delightful
voices of the St. Andrew’s Children’s Choir compel listening
children to sing along.

The design of the book parallels the whirl and twirl of dandelion fluff
blowing in the breeze. Even the text curves and arcs in flowing lines
around the page. Unfortunately, the illustration of Toni, depicting
fine, wispy hair and soft full cheeks, make her look like a 2-year-old,
instead of a 5- or 6-year-old.

The book also contains a factual history of dandelions and a
description of how they grow. There are instructions for growing your
own dandelion plant as well. This teacher’s kit will delight children
in the primary classroom or preschool centre. Highly recommended.