Grandpa and the Kingfisher

A grandfather and his grandchild enjoy spending time together by the river and often go out in Grandpa’s rowing boat.

Grandpa teaches the young child about the natural world, the changing of the seasons and the cycle of life. He demonstrates how to watch, listen and spot a kingfisher as it darts to catch fish. On trips to the river throughout the year they watch the kingfisher and his mate as they build a nest and sees the young chicks when they emerge from the nest.

As the seasons change and the young chicks leave Grandpa gently hints that their time together will also come to an end because nothing, except nature, goes on for ever. Grandpa is absent in the last few pages of the book, and we watch as the young child remembers their time together and though missing him continues to enjoy the river and watch the kingfishers.

Written in memory of the author’s father who loved kingfishers, this is a beautifully written tale about nature and the cycle of life. It aims to open young eyes to the wonders of the natural world with a lyrical text and beautiful imagery which bring the riverbank to life. The illustrations enhance the text, providing colour, movement, and added detail to describe the natural world and its changes through the seasons.

Full of warmth, this story also celebrates the special nature of the relationship between a child and a grandparent, and gently prepare young children for the inevitability of death.