Boudin's First Christmas is the
first story in Boudin's Grand Adventures, and is written and creatively
illustrated by Leah Morris, or “Mama Leah.” This is a simple and delightful children’s
picture book story of a grandmother now left alone after a long and happy
marriage to her husband of sixty years. Together they had made the bayou their
home and had enjoyed life there and exploring what the swamp had to offer. But
the old lady is lonely and longs for a companion to share her days. Maybe a
dog? A dog could keep her company as she went on walks. So, in anticipation of
her wish being granted, the old lady set out a comfy chair for Father
Christmas, cookies, and a cool glass of milk. She also placed a candle in the
window to light his way. As the sun rose on Christmas Day, what a wonderful,
loving surprise awaited her! The old lady named her adorable new companion
Boudin, which is the name of a sausage of meat and rice really enjoyed by the
Cajun French. Boudin’s adventures have just begun.
First, the wonderful images make
this story an enchanting work of art. The pictures are hand drawn and painted,
and then stitched onto paper with a green thread. This gives a cosy, home-grown
feel to the whole story, drawing young (and any age) readers into a story
literally created by the author. I loved the delicate detail of the images, the
vibrant colours, the way the edges of the pictures spill over the paper edge,
giving a three-dimensional perspective. This is the kind of picture book that
children will want to read or have read to them again and again, as they pore
over each page and find new details with each retelling. The book itself has a
‘classic’ feel that just invites youngsters to turn those pages themselves.
The story has so much to offer
readers: themes of love and devotion in a relationship, remembering a loved one
who has passed on, the idea of companionship, caring for and loving a
four-footed companion, having faith that a wish will come true, and acting on
that faith. I just loved everything about this touching and beautifully
illustrated tale. I have no doubt that readers, young and older, will be eager
to find out more about Boudin’s next adventure. Although this is a Christmas
story, it’s a delightful read for any time of the year!
