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Curious Chris – Why No Flamingos? follows a curious young boy and his parents who decide it is time to get a family pet. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for Curious Chris-Why No Flamingos? was our son Chris who was very curious. He used the word, “falingmo,” for the word flamingo, and I wanted to find a way to use it in a story. I incorporated the way we got our dog, Charlie, from our local pet shelter, and thus the story was born.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
As a former English teacher, I know how important it is to create engaging content, so young readers will want to read more. I want children to know that curiosity is encouraged, yet parents may need help sometimes. In addition, I want everyone to know that pet adoption is the best way for people to get a new pet. Finally, many times, children are not going to get their way, so I wanted to offer a story for young readers to see a child pivot when his/her dream isn’t available.
The collaboration with illustrator Sally Garland resulted in exceptional art in this book. How was the process managed, and what were some of the key factors that contributed to the successful outcome?
Sally Garland is an amazing illustrator, and she and I consulted prior to her illustrating my story. She wanted to create a scene where Chris dreamed of a perfect scenario of Chris and his falingmo which is how she created the swimming pool scene.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
As of right now, this is the only book and not a series, and I have not thought of a follow-up book as of right now. However, I will never say never.
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“Why is the sky blue? Why doesn’t the sun smoke if it’s so hot? Why can’t it rain cotton candy?”
His exhausted parents decide it’s time for a pet. For the first time, Chris has no questions to ask because he knows exactly the pet to choose. But when adoption day finally arrives, Chris needs to make a choice. Will he find his pet at the local animal shelter?
Curious Chris- Why No Flamingos?
Curious Chris – Why No Flamingos? by Cindy B. Witty, illustrated by Sally Garland, stands out as a particularly charming and insightful children’s book. The story, centered around Chris, a boy with an insatiable curiosity, captures the essence of a child’s imaginative world. Chris’s constant stream of questions, ranging from the mundane to the fantastical, not only entertains but also reflects a deep and relatable aspect of childhood.
The narrative’s strength lies in its portrayal of how Chris’s parents navigate his endless inquiries. They ingeniously propose a pet as a way to channel his curiosity, leading to Chris’s whimsical desire for a flamingo, or “falingmo” in his endearing mispronunciation. This choice is an imaginative yet grounded approach to dealing with a child’s boundless imagination. As the story unfolds, with the realization that a flamingo is an impractical pet, it takes a gentle turn towards dealing with disappointment and finding joy in unexpected outcomes.
The introduction of Angel, the sandy-colored Labrador, marks a significant shift in Chris’s journey. The gradual shift from disappointment to affection is handled with a deft touch, teaching an important lesson about adaptability and openness to new experiences. What truly elevates this book are Sally Garland’s illustrations. They do more than just accompany the text; they breathe life into Chris’s world, making the story more immersive and engaging for young readers. The combination of Witty’s storytelling and Garland’s visuals creates a captivating experience.
Curious Chris – Why No Flamingos? is a rich, multifaceted tale that delves into themes of curiosity, adaptability, and the joys of unexpected companionship. It is an excellent choice for children, offering both entertainment and valuable life lessons in a delightful package.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CFW25HT3
LITERARY TITAN 