A Nest for Celeste
by Henry Cole
This story is a great read aloud.....
Set in the early 1800s on a plantation in the bayou country of Louisiana. Beautifully illustrated with the flora and fauna of the area, Henry Cole’s novel brings Celeste and her friends to life in this story about art, inspiration, and the meaning of home. Cole grabs the children's attention right from the beginning. Celeste is a mouse who lives underneath the floorboards of the dining room. One day she ventures out to the world above where she dodges a hungry cat and witnesses the art of hunting for the first time. She makes friends with a singing thrush named Cornelius. She meets an osprey who likes to talk and Joseph, Audubon's young apprentice.
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Illustrations are WONDERFUL pencil sketches |
All the while Celeste is looking for a new home. Where will she find one? In the toe of a worn boot? in Joseph's pocket? or in a dollhouse in the attic, which is complete with mouse-size furniture! In the end, Celeste discovers the true meaning of 'home' and your students will learn the true meaning of friendship.
“I have long been an admirer of Henry Cole’s
contribution to children’s literature. With this
first novel, he weaves a tale that, in addition
to his delightful illustrations, has all the
best ingredients—a sense of history,
time-honored themes, and just the
right amount of imagination.”
—Julie Andrews
Click below for comprehension questions and teacher guide