Carry Me, Mama

Anne Hutchings, a former elementary-school teacher-librarian with the
Durham Board of Education, is an educational consultant.

When Katie was a baby, Mama carried her everywhere under her parka. Now
Katie is a big girl, so Mama says she must walk. But Katie isn’t so
sure and keeps asking, “Carry me, Mama!” Mama knows just what to do.
At first, the walks are very short, just a stone’s throw. Gradually
the distance increases to as far as a rabbit runs, then as far as a bear
roams. Though Katie struggles, she manages to keep up. Finally the day
comes when Katie does more than keep up. She leads the way as far as the
raven flies, and all the way back. At home, Mama carries her—all the
way to bed!

Monica Devine has captured perfectly that time in a toddler’s life
when he begins to assert his independence, yet still requires the
security of mother’s presence. Young readers will know just how Katie
feels.

Pauline Paquin’s illustrations are exquisite. Richly colored and
detailed, they portray the beauty and desolation of the Far North.
Readers young and old will find intriguing her trademark absence of
human facial features. The sole exception is the last illustration of
Katie, which shows the look of joy and contentment on the little
girl’s face as Mama carries her to bed.

Curriculum connections are numerous. Carry Me, Mama would be an
excellent resource for primary units on families, parents and children,
and Inuit, among others. Highly recommended.