Home in the Woods

Eliza Wheeler

2019 • 42 pages

Ratings3

Average rating5

Eliza Wheeler's gorgeously illustrated book tells the story of what happens when six-year-old Marvel, her seven siblings, and their mom must start all over again after their father has died. Deep in the woods of Wisconsin they find a tar-paper shack. It doesn't seem like much of a home, but they soon start seeing what it could be. During their first year it's a struggle to maintain the shack and make sure they have enough to eat. But each season also brings its own delights and blessings--and the children always find a way to have fun. Most importantly, the family finds immense joy in being together, surrounded by nature. And slowly, their little shack starts feeling like a true home--warm, bright, and filled up with love.

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Popular Reviews

Reviews with the most likes.

Margaret

This book has it all. Beautiful illustrations, an interested lot of characters to favor, and a message that is timeless less the children of the world forget that depression eras come and go. I enjoyed every minute of reading a digital copy of this book, Home in the Woods. I wouldn't hesitate to add a physical copy to our shelves.

I read an eARC via Edelweiss 2019

I now own a jacketed hardcover 2022.

September 16, 2019

Ivy Pages

Rating: 5 leaves out of 5
Characters: 5/5
Cover: 5/5
Story: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Genre: Children/Picture Book
Type: Book
Worth?: Yes!

What a sad and cute story. Eliza tells a story about her grandmother's life in the Great Depression. A sad time for all, this bit hits hard. A family who lost everything but found all they needed in a small home in the woods. How a family survived and grew. Love it. I would give it a 100/5 if I could.

January 3, 2022

Amalia Gkavea

‘'Snow falls in a blanket of diamonds all around the shack. The jack pines sway above as we fall asleep close together. But Mum stays awake into the night, whispering to the stars...''

Wisconsin, 1932. Little Marvel's family has been struck by the devastating effects of the Great Depression. Their house is lost but most importantly, the father of the family has gone to live with the angels...Now, Mum and her eight children must create a household in an almost run-down shack in the woods. The children support each other through hard work and invent new games, inspired by the nearby town and Nature. And soon enough, their little house becomes a true home, full of life and hope and togetherness. The shadows are chased away, frightened by the bravery of Marvel's Mum and the determination of a family that lost everything.

This beautiful book is based on the life of Wheeler's grandmother, Marvel, whose family made the difficult decision to leave their life behind and start anew in the most unlikely of places. The story of Marvel, her siblings, and her Mum comes alive through marvelous illustrations that reminded me of old-school children's books. The feelings of the characters and the ever-changing, ever-beautiful Nature are vividly depicted and you'll feel your heart full of hope, witnessing the courage of Marvel's family.

An outstanding book about overcoming the obstacles when you stay true to yourself and the love of your family.

Many thanks to Nancy Paulsen Books and Edelweiss for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

My reviews can also be found on https://theopinionatedreaderblog.wordpress.com/