Sid the Sasquatch by Wendy Elliott is a beautiful, inspiring, and poetic story about friendship, love, and acceptance, a story that every child in this generation should read. Growing up, Sid was taught by his mother to stay away from humans, so no wonder that his kind only goes out at night when humans are asleep. But the little Sasquatch with a broad smile and an exuberant nature is destined to meet humans and this happens in a very curious way. He is walking fast one day when:
“He falls to the ground, hitting hard with a smack,
Then looks up to see a young boy staring back.”
Ollie couldn’t help but offer his hand to help Sid up, and thus the friendship that “begins with a swing” mirrors the beautiful world of children; easy to connect, ready to share, and enthusiastic about meeting new friends. It is only the beginning of an enjoyable adventure.
Wendy Elliott’s book is wonderful and it paints a beautiful world for kids. I read this book with my five-year-old son, and he now talks about Sid and Ollie as if they lived next door. He was amazed by the pictures. Now he’s learned that it is rewarding to include the stranger, to reach out to others in friendship, and to share one’s joy. The illustrations are very appealing, and the poetry rings through the ears like soothing music. At a time when there is a lot of racism, prejudices against other races, and exclusion of minorities, our kids need to rediscover the beauty of friendship and service, and Sid the Sasquatch is one of the great tools they’d need. An inspiring story about friendship and acceptance.