Connie Dennis wrote her debut book Pickles the Osprey to educate young people on Nova Scotia’s provincial bird. It is written from the imaginative and creative point of view of Pickles, a baby Osprey and it documents his life from just before he was hatched until he flies south for the winter. Pickles is the offspring of Oscar and Ethel, a pair of mature Ospreys that have been returning to Russell Lake in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia for about 15 years. With real photographs on each page, taken by the author’s talented husband, and remarkable Osprey facts throughout the book, it documents the life cycle of this amazing raptor.
I was delighted with how Pickles narrated the story. I believe this unique approach will speak to children. The illustrated cartoons of Pickles talking are sure to encourage conversation about what is happening in the story. Pickles the Osprey would be an asset in any childcare facility or home library, and will have children looking to the skies to see if they can spot Pickles flying overhead.
All the proceeds of the sales of Connie’s book go to Hope for Wildlife, a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation and education organization located in Seaforth, Nova Scotia, helping local wildlife including the Osprey.
Of special note: In a Member Statement presented at the Nova Scotia Province House, Lorelei Nicoll, the MLA for Cole-Dartmouth, acknowledged and recognized the publication of Pickles the Osprey by Connie and Don Dennis, and the funds being raised for Hope for Wildlife.
Connie and Don Dennis live in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, very close to an osprey nest. They became very involved in learning about their habits and lifestyle. They are amazing birds to watch! They have always been wildlife advocates. Connie and Don lived for many years in Panama, where we developed a newfound love for the many birds and animals that inhabited the area. Connie and Don manage Ospreys of Nova Scotia, a fun Facebook group with over 2,000 members who want to look at and share pictures of Ospreys.
Growing up in the countryside of Wales, Greg David spent countless hours filling sketchbooks and scraps of paper with imaginative illustrations. Eventually, he pursued his dreams and studied at what is now known as the Arts University Bournemouth. After working in the animation industry, he never lost sight of his love for illustrating children’s books and continued working on them in his free time. After 12 years he finally took the chance and dedicated himself to creating beautiful, captivating children’s books. His portfolio can be found on his website at https://gregdavidillustration.com/
Publisher: Morning Dove Press (Nov 6th, 2023)
Paperback 8″ x 8″ | 40 pages
ISBN: 9781998057115
Sue Slade has a Bachelor of Child Study from Mount St. Vincent University in Halifax. After working with children and adults with special needs, she now has her midlife dream job of working with books. Sue manages an independent, locally owned bookstore, Dartmouth Book Exchange. Through her charismatic sharing centred around books and community, Sue has created an engaging cornerstone for authors, customers, and book lovers of all ages. Sue is an avid reader and her reviews cross over many genres.
