I HEAR YOU, MOUNTAINS

On a fall hike in the mountains, a small group listens to the world around them.

An adult and three children—a preschooler with light brown skin and curly hair in two puffs and two school-age children, one with light skin, short blond hair, and a knit cap, the other sporting glasses and sharing the beige skin tone and dark hair of the adult—set off on a hike. “The mountains have lots to say… / if you listen.” Each subsequent spread starts with an onomatopoeic sound and the children recognizing the noisemaker: “Chirr, chirr. / I hear you, Chipmunk, / chattering cheerfully. / Would you like / to hike with us?” On their way to the summit, they also hear a waterfall, rustling branches, bouncing pine cones, birds hoping for dropped crumbs, footsteps, a snoring bear (imagined), snowflakes, and an echo. George highlights sights and sounds accessible to most children who are exploring the mountains, making this an adventure that young ones can replicate, especially since Mok depicts the characters taking frequent breaks to rest, snack, or satisfy their curiosity. The youngest child hitches a ride partway but is still able to tackle the terrain, and the group’s efforts have a satisfying payoff.

Likely to sharpen nature-listening skills, this is ideal for sharing before a mountain hike of your own.