The Scarecrow's Wish - by Huang Xiaoning (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

"Sweet and simple." - Kirkus Reviews

In an abandoned field stands a lonely scarecrow. He has been trying to make friends with the birds and mice for a long time, but they're scared of him. Then comes an unexpected surprise: the animals in the field are in trouble, and the scarecrow may be the only one who can save them.

Winner of the silver medal in the Key Colors China 2023 competition, The Scarecrow's Wish is a touching story about loneliness, courage, and connection.

A heartwarming story about making new friends when you least expect it. For sweet scarecrows ages 4 years and up.

Review Quotes

"A lonely scarecrow finally makes the friends he's desperately wished for. Originally written in Chinese, then translated into Dutch and then English and first published in Belgium and the Netherlands, this picture book depicts a scarecrow in an abandoned field, longing for animal friends. As the seasons pass, he remains stationary, so much so that the crows and mice realize that he isn't threatening; rather, he works hard to scare away potential predators like a sneaky black cat. With the help of his newfound friends, the scarecrow takes on a new look with fabric, twigs, and grass, making his larger-than-life shadow just right for permanently scaring off the cat. The scarecrow is drawn with a sweet, youthful face, the littlest bit of fabriclike texture imprinted on his peachy-pale face. Certainly not drab, he's a visually intriguing figure, clad in a multi-patterned top and hat and a bright red knitted scarf. This is a quiet story that reads like a fable, gentle and comforting. Huang's full-page illustrations are compelling, especially the opening scene of the scarecrow against a light blue sky and puffy white animal-shaped clouds. Well-drawn shifting perspectives include a high-angled shot of the sneaky cat on the ground and the gray blue of the scarecrow's shadow. Huang's depictions of mutually beneficial friendships demonstrate that even unlikely pairs can result in meaningful bonds. Sweet and simple. (Picture book. 4-8)" - Kirkus Reviews