Gill Lewis’ stories connect young readers with the countryside and wild animals as the very best nature writing does, inspiring them to discover more of the outdoors and to stand up for the environment. In Song of the River, Cari is reluctantly beginning a new life with her mother following the tragic death of her father. They have moved away from the city to a cottage next to a river where her mum opens a café. When a flood destroys their home, the resilience of the tiny water voles on the riverbank inspires Cari to see things differently, and a proposal to reintroduce beavers to the area convinces her that the future can be different. The more she finds out about the scheme, the more involved she becomes, finding new strength as well as a place in the community. The story weaves together personal loss and recovery into a story with a message for us all. Simply told, the impact will be long-lasting.
Times are tough for Cari and her mum. A violent storm has flooded the valley where they live, destroying their home and cafe business. Things seem bleak - but hope appears in the form of a plan to reintroduce beavers into the area, as the changes that these amazing animals make to the waterways might prevent another flood. Cari knows that she has to get involved.
But with the project facing resistance from locals, can she convince them to give the beavers a chance - and will it be enough to save her home from being destroyed for a second time?
Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 8+
Gill Lewis has adored animals for as long as she can remember. From building a mini hospital for insects in her garden as a child, to working as a vet in the wilds of Africa, her life has been full of fascinating wildlife adventures. She now lives in Somerset with her family and their pets, which include dogs, chickens, and a rescued Shetland pony. She dreams up stories in her treehouse, surrounded by squirrels and plates of biscuits. Her books have won and been shortlisted for numerous awards. A Street Dog Named Pup is the first book that she has also illustrated herself.
Gill’s writing has earned her numerous awards such as the UKLA Children’s Book Award and the Little Rebel Award, and several nominations for prestigious awards including the CILIP Carnegie Medal.
