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Hope and Freckles: Fleeing to a Better Forest
Hope, a white-tailed deer, and her spotted fawn, Freckles, are facing hunger and danger in their forest. Hope decides that they must leave their home and go in search of a better place where they will be safe. When they arrive at a new forest, Hope and Freckles face unexpected challenges that will force them apart. Will they be reunited? After you have read the story of Hope and Freckles, continue to explore the stories of people all over the world who have to leave their homes because of danger or hunger. Let the tale of Hope and Freckles begin to teach you about the millions of people who face the same difficulties that this mother deer and her little boy face as refugees.
38 pages, Hardcover
Published June 1, 2020
1618 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
October 20, 2020
I am telling myself to get the physical copy of this storybook when it comes out. The illustrations and the story telling is just top-notch! The reading experience will be much, much better with the physical copy I say!
Because this book is really important to me. It gives me all the classic storybook feels. It's emotional, urgent and important.
The story depicts how the lives of the wildlife are endangered told from the perspective of a white-tailed deer, Hope, who is struggling to survive and stay safe worrying about the safety of her own fawn, Freckles.
This is heartbreaking to read. At the same time, it is hopeful, and informative regarding how animals get shifted to another place and the procedures that are required.
This storybook is such an eye-opener for me.
Waiting for the book to hit the stores!
Thank you #NetGalley for the ARC.
Because this book is really important to me. It gives me all the classic storybook feels. It's emotional, urgent and important.
The story depicts how the lives of the wildlife are endangered told from the perspective of a white-tailed deer, Hope, who is struggling to survive and stay safe worrying about the safety of her own fawn, Freckles.
This is heartbreaking to read. At the same time, it is hopeful, and informative regarding how animals get shifted to another place and the procedures that are required.
This storybook is such an eye-opener for me.
Waiting for the book to hit the stores!
Thank you #NetGalley for the ARC.
May 11, 2020
Hope and Freckles is a darling little story about a mamma deer and her fawn. When they are separated at a forest, they must be reunited and face some rough challenges along the way. This is very much a tale about refugees and can be used in an educational setting.
This story is for a bit older age group of children, I'd say grade three and up. There's more story and plot to this than just pretty pictures.
I do really like how unique this story is. Placing a tough subject on a cute story for educational purposes is one thing I love about children's books. The routes you can take to teach is magical!
Three out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mascot Books for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
This story is for a bit older age group of children, I'd say grade three and up. There's more story and plot to this than just pretty pictures.
I do really like how unique this story is. Placing a tough subject on a cute story for educational purposes is one thing I love about children's books. The routes you can take to teach is magical!
Three out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mascot Books for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
May 30, 2020
While this purports to be a book about refugees around the world, it's clear that the events in the story are based on what's going on in a particular area: the border between the United States and Mexico. There's nothing wrong with this, of course, but it does lead to some disturbing plot points. (Like Bambi, this book has the potential to traumatize.)
Hope and her son, Freckles, are facing danger in the Olden Forest. So they decide to leave and make their way to the Big Pine Forest where Hope hopes they'll find a better life. But when they arrive, they're confronted with a fence and guards who tell them they can't come in. They might have disease-carrying ticks in their fur, after all. So the deer wait until, finally, they're allowed in... only to find out that the fawns will be separated from their parents. Eventually, Hope gets word that she and Freckles will be allowed to stay, and they are reunited... just before Hope witnesses the other deer being loaded onto trucks and sent back to their dangerous forests without their fawns.
The story is kind of brutal... but so is the treatment of refugees. The message is tempered somewhat by the adorable illustrations. They're perhaps my favourite part of the book.
Sometimes the truth is difficult to face. I think I'd recommend this one with some reservations. It's the kind of book that requires some discussion between kids and adults to get the most out of it (and so children aren't unnecessarily frightened by the thought of someone coming to take them away from their parents). It might not be appropriate for refugee children, since it has the potential to put new worries in their head. But it will probably need to be looked at on a case-by-case basis.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mascot Books for providing a digital ARC.
Hope and her son, Freckles, are facing danger in the Olden Forest. So they decide to leave and make their way to the Big Pine Forest where Hope hopes they'll find a better life. But when they arrive, they're confronted with a fence and guards who tell them they can't come in. They might have disease-carrying ticks in their fur, after all. So the deer wait until, finally, they're allowed in... only to find out that the fawns will be separated from their parents. Eventually, Hope gets word that she and Freckles will be allowed to stay, and they are reunited... just before Hope witnesses the other deer being loaded onto trucks and sent back to their dangerous forests without their fawns.
The story is kind of brutal... but so is the treatment of refugees. The message is tempered somewhat by the adorable illustrations. They're perhaps my favourite part of the book.
Sometimes the truth is difficult to face. I think I'd recommend this one with some reservations. It's the kind of book that requires some discussion between kids and adults to get the most out of it (and so children aren't unnecessarily frightened by the thought of someone coming to take them away from their parents). It might not be appropriate for refugee children, since it has the potential to put new worries in their head. But it will probably need to be looked at on a case-by-case basis.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mascot Books for providing a digital ARC.
June 1, 2020
!! NOW AVAILABLE !!
3.5 Stars
When a white-tailed deer, Hope, and her fawn, Freckles, are forced to leave the forest they’ve lived in because of the danger around them from others, and the dwindling of food sources, they find themselves on a long journey. A journey they hope will bring them to not only a safer place, but once they arrive at the new forest, they are faced with a tall fence, and guards saying they already have too many of their kind there, and that ”you just want to eat our food and do nothing to earn it.” Hope explains that she came for her fawn, that their food and water sources have almost evaporated, and begs them to please, let them in.
The next day the guards tell them that they may stay, but only for a little while. Shortly after, Freckles is taken from her mother, and Fawn is forced to leave, more or less in a cage, and they have to wait for the General to decide their future.
There is another message here as this story comes to a close, a mother reminding her child to always remember to be grateful for the life they have, but the bigger message – to me, anyway - seemed more aimed at adults for a picture book written and illustrated very young children, even though the message is an important one.
At the end of this book are questions parents can pose to their children, in the hopes that the message of this book will lead to conversations, and compassion about the issues facing refugees.
Pub Date: 01 June 2020
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Mascot Books
3.5 Stars
When a white-tailed deer, Hope, and her fawn, Freckles, are forced to leave the forest they’ve lived in because of the danger around them from others, and the dwindling of food sources, they find themselves on a long journey. A journey they hope will bring them to not only a safer place, but once they arrive at the new forest, they are faced with a tall fence, and guards saying they already have too many of their kind there, and that ”you just want to eat our food and do nothing to earn it.” Hope explains that she came for her fawn, that their food and water sources have almost evaporated, and begs them to please, let them in.
The next day the guards tell them that they may stay, but only for a little while. Shortly after, Freckles is taken from her mother, and Fawn is forced to leave, more or less in a cage, and they have to wait for the General to decide their future.
There is another message here as this story comes to a close, a mother reminding her child to always remember to be grateful for the life they have, but the bigger message – to me, anyway - seemed more aimed at adults for a picture book written and illustrated very young children, even though the message is an important one.
At the end of this book are questions parents can pose to their children, in the hopes that the message of this book will lead to conversations, and compassion about the issues facing refugees.
Pub Date: 01 June 2020
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Mascot Books
March 4, 2020
What a heartwarming approach to a both a sensitive and current topic! This is a must read for children (and adults) of all ages. This wonderfully written and illustrated book describes the flight of a mother deer and her adorable fawn. The two will win your heart as you root for them to find a safe home in which to thrive. Like many around the world who have been displaced by war, violence and poverty, their only wish is find a better place to live. This book expertly explains the problems refugees face around the world in such a creative way that young readers will instantly bond and have a better understanding of this worldwide problem, laying the groundwork to develop empathy for others. I especially like that the author included a section with questions for further discussion with children. I can't wait to read to my grandchildren. FIVE STARS!
December 21, 2020
Hope and Freckles - Fleeing to a Better Forest // by Bill Kiley // Illustrated by Mary Manning
"I came for the safety of my fawn."
Hope and Freckles is the story of a deer and her fawn fleeing their home to find refuge in a safer place. Along the way, they meet more deer heading the same way and together they arrive at the new forest, where they are stopped and detained by the guards at the gate. Shockingly, Hope and Freckles have to be separated at this point while they away the decision of the General. Will Freckles be able to reunite with his mom? Will they be able to stay in the new forest?
Oh my heart! I only glanced at the description of this book so I was not prepared for what I headed into. During our journey to conceive, I often wonder how I would describe certain current events to my future children and what books would be able to assist with this. As an immigrant married to a hispanic immigrant, the current climate regarding refugees is very upsetting to us and this story hit very close to home. Kiley beautifully turned reality into a story that is easy to convey to young children to encourage discussions surrounding the topic of refugees and asylum. I also like how he included additional questions in the back of the book to encourage even more thoughts and conversation. As if the book was not already beautiful enough, Manning accompanied the story with absolutely stunning illustrations. Who knew it would be possible to portray these emotions so well on deer? This really enhanced the experience for me.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review. I cannot wait to read the next one and will be sure to add these to our shelf.
"I came for the safety of my fawn."
Hope and Freckles is the story of a deer and her fawn fleeing their home to find refuge in a safer place. Along the way, they meet more deer heading the same way and together they arrive at the new forest, where they are stopped and detained by the guards at the gate. Shockingly, Hope and Freckles have to be separated at this point while they away the decision of the General. Will Freckles be able to reunite with his mom? Will they be able to stay in the new forest?
Oh my heart! I only glanced at the description of this book so I was not prepared for what I headed into. During our journey to conceive, I often wonder how I would describe certain current events to my future children and what books would be able to assist with this. As an immigrant married to a hispanic immigrant, the current climate regarding refugees is very upsetting to us and this story hit very close to home. Kiley beautifully turned reality into a story that is easy to convey to young children to encourage discussions surrounding the topic of refugees and asylum. I also like how he included additional questions in the back of the book to encourage even more thoughts and conversation. As if the book was not already beautiful enough, Manning accompanied the story with absolutely stunning illustrations. Who knew it would be possible to portray these emotions so well on deer? This really enhanced the experience for me.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review. I cannot wait to read the next one and will be sure to add these to our shelf.
May 1, 2020
Wow, a heart-filled need is met with this book! Potential grade school lesson or daycare activity with a compassion and equality centered message, beautiful!
The author had me at "dedicated to asylum seekers..." ... heartstrings tugged, noting our severely changing earth with climate change touching everything and with resource inequities controlling goods and access to safety, to food, to shelter. If we don't yet know of someone fleeing their home because of climate unrest (which begets political unrest which begets power fights which begets...strife...and war...which begets refugees)...we will know someone soon enough.
Here is a book that speaks to this challenge and gives hope to the children in the midst of that turmoil, and teaches our secure children to watch for the hurting and give kindness and open their doors and hearts.
This story seems to echo the outrageous treatment of the immigration over the US-Mexico border, but truly this story could be anywhere on the planet in places of incoming hurting people, places where children are often torn from parents' arms.
It is amazing when a book can inspire more than hope, can inspire aid and hopefully change for the better, can inspire children to grow up wanting to be a part of help to the far-flung without homes, who learn to accept new children into their midst with open arms and play fields. We cannot know what world comes, but we can know it will be different and at times incredibly scary and inequitable and of trial . This book brings hope and widens the view of the child. Why read it to your comfortable child? Because books like this birth heart, compassion, kindness, open mindedness, justice, fairness.
And so much more.
" 'Hello,' said Hope to the guards.
...'Can we come into the
Big Pine Forest?"
'No one is allowed in,' said one..."
The illustrations by Mary Manning are perfect, wonderful forest scenes, a good complement to the text to counter the tough message with hope of better scenery. The text often appears around 75 words per 2-page spread (some far less), but is about 20 pages or so (I am reading an advanced reader digital copy and it shows 19 pages so that could be adjusted), thus it is a quick enough read. At the end is a great question section, meaning this book could become a grade school lesson, and perhaps a powerful one at that.
We need more books like this in fact. Thank you Mr. Kiley for such a diamond. This world staring coming crisis in the face (so much more than current crisis, even pandemics....) shouts to us with Her upheaval: love and care for one another, and for Me.
Highly recommended. Thank you to NetGalley and to Mascot Books for this ARC for review. This is a book I will not forget, and will look to find places to gift its power.
The author had me at "dedicated to asylum seekers..." ... heartstrings tugged, noting our severely changing earth with climate change touching everything and with resource inequities controlling goods and access to safety, to food, to shelter. If we don't yet know of someone fleeing their home because of climate unrest (which begets political unrest which begets power fights which begets...strife...and war...which begets refugees)...we will know someone soon enough.
Here is a book that speaks to this challenge and gives hope to the children in the midst of that turmoil, and teaches our secure children to watch for the hurting and give kindness and open their doors and hearts.
This story seems to echo the outrageous treatment of the immigration over the US-Mexico border, but truly this story could be anywhere on the planet in places of incoming hurting people, places where children are often torn from parents' arms.
It is amazing when a book can inspire more than hope, can inspire aid and hopefully change for the better, can inspire children to grow up wanting to be a part of help to the far-flung without homes, who learn to accept new children into their midst with open arms and play fields. We cannot know what world comes, but we can know it will be different and at times incredibly scary and inequitable and of trial . This book brings hope and widens the view of the child. Why read it to your comfortable child? Because books like this birth heart, compassion, kindness, open mindedness, justice, fairness.
And so much more.
" 'Hello,' said Hope to the guards.
...'Can we come into the
Big Pine Forest?"
'No one is allowed in,' said one..."
The illustrations by Mary Manning are perfect, wonderful forest scenes, a good complement to the text to counter the tough message with hope of better scenery. The text often appears around 75 words per 2-page spread (some far less), but is about 20 pages or so (I am reading an advanced reader digital copy and it shows 19 pages so that could be adjusted), thus it is a quick enough read. At the end is a great question section, meaning this book could become a grade school lesson, and perhaps a powerful one at that.
We need more books like this in fact. Thank you Mr. Kiley for such a diamond. This world staring coming crisis in the face (so much more than current crisis, even pandemics....) shouts to us with Her upheaval: love and care for one another, and for Me.
Highly recommended. Thank you to NetGalley and to Mascot Books for this ARC for review. This is a book I will not forget, and will look to find places to gift its power.
August 14, 2020
In a new children’s picture book, HOPE and FRECKLES, Fleeing to a Better Forest, published in 2020 by Mascot Books, author Bill Kiley writes about a white-tailed mother deer named Hope, and her fawn, Freckles, who journey from their dangerous home of Olden Forest, to the safety of Big Pine Forest.
While the tale relies heavily on the plight of today’s refugees and asylum seekers fleeing to the United States of America (trauma and conditions that most American-born children and adults will never experience), the illustrations’ likable characters throughout the twenty-seven pages by artist Mary Manning, soften an underlying theme: Scary governments exist in many of today’s third-world nations. Parents and educators may want to read the book for themselves before introducing this kind of plot to children, due to their individual personalities.
HOPE and FRECKLES, Fleeing to a Better Forest, planned as a book series, carves a genre that seems to be one-of-a-kind, a sort of “Political and Educational Children’s Picture Book”, validated as such with its postface page of “Useful Definitions for Young Readers”, “Resources for Parents and Educators”, and “Questions for Discussions”. Mr. Kiley’s professionalism, awards, and peace-making career in the USA and abroad, pour authenticity into this book, one that imparts a sense of strong family bonds, bravery, and HOPE.
https://patriciatimbrook.wordpress.co...
While the tale relies heavily on the plight of today’s refugees and asylum seekers fleeing to the United States of America (trauma and conditions that most American-born children and adults will never experience), the illustrations’ likable characters throughout the twenty-seven pages by artist Mary Manning, soften an underlying theme: Scary governments exist in many of today’s third-world nations. Parents and educators may want to read the book for themselves before introducing this kind of plot to children, due to their individual personalities.
HOPE and FRECKLES, Fleeing to a Better Forest, planned as a book series, carves a genre that seems to be one-of-a-kind, a sort of “Political and Educational Children’s Picture Book”, validated as such with its postface page of “Useful Definitions for Young Readers”, “Resources for Parents and Educators”, and “Questions for Discussions”. Mr. Kiley’s professionalism, awards, and peace-making career in the USA and abroad, pour authenticity into this book, one that imparts a sense of strong family bonds, bravery, and HOPE.
https://patriciatimbrook.wordpress.co...
June 9, 2020
This is one of those new books that come out as a book targeted towards children but with a heavy message hidden behind plot. As such some of the more sensitive children readers may be affected and so it may be better for a first reading ending in a discussion with a caregiver or teacher about the actual events behind the story due to the author didn't include any additional information on the subject as most of these books normally do.
The digital format fortunately showed the pages side-by-side unlike many other digital ARC copies but as a result it didn't allow the reader to magnify the text. As such while reading this particular book I couldn't magnify the copy or increase the size of the font so a few of the words weren't quite clear enough for the reading.
Otherwise the writing itself was quite clear in concept and easy to understand in its progression so again children would be able to enjoy reading even if they may not understand the background. For me the only thing that seemed to be a bit of an open plot hole was the fact that only Hope chose to speak up for the other deer instead any of them speaking up for themselves
Meanwhile the book has some interesting illustrations that puts the telling of this particular tale in a South American forest although not a jungle. The characters are more cartoonish than regular illustrations but the backgrounds are gorgeous in most instances. And some of the questions I had about the illustrations just were why is this particular doe so dark-coated and her fawn the only one with spots?
Altogether it was a decent book but one that will probably end up being more a capture of a moment in time than a classic and a great introduction book to discussing this particular type of subject for those who want to educate their children on such.
**Please note I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review**
The digital format fortunately showed the pages side-by-side unlike many other digital ARC copies but as a result it didn't allow the reader to magnify the text. As such while reading this particular book I couldn't magnify the copy or increase the size of the font so a few of the words weren't quite clear enough for the reading.
Otherwise the writing itself was quite clear in concept and easy to understand in its progression so again children would be able to enjoy reading even if they may not understand the background. For me the only thing that seemed to be a bit of an open plot hole was the fact that only Hope chose to speak up for the other deer instead any of them speaking up for themselves
Meanwhile the book has some interesting illustrations that puts the telling of this particular tale in a South American forest although not a jungle. The characters are more cartoonish than regular illustrations but the backgrounds are gorgeous in most instances. And some of the questions I had about the illustrations just were why is this particular doe so dark-coated and her fawn the only one with spots?
Altogether it was a decent book but one that will probably end up being more a capture of a moment in time than a classic and a great introduction book to discussing this particular type of subject for those who want to educate their children on such.
**Please note I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review**
May 5, 2020
This endearing story is about a mother (Hope) and her fawn (Freckles) who must leave their home as it is no longer safe. The hunters are hunting, the jaguars and coyotes are hungry and the plants are drying out because the summer is hot, the air is dry, the waterways are drying up. Hope tells Freckles that they must leave their home and they embark on a long journey to safety.
Unfortunately, things are not as they hoped they would be. Hope and Freckles are faced with trying circumstances and fear the worst. Hope is hopeful and Freckles is scared but they are able to withstand the troubles they face.
The illustrations are lovely and they emit a sense of calm despite the turmoil that Hope and Freckles face. There is a cohesiveness between the story and its illustrations, they compliment each other nicely.
The author wrote this book to address the issue relating to the treatment of refugees. Bill has done a fantastic job of addressing the uncomfortable issue at a level that children can relate to. I immediately saw that value of this book through the eyes of a teacher. This book is an excellent way to engage young children and introduce the topic of refugees. The author has even included vocabulary and discussion questions at the end of the book to support an introductory lesson. Also included are resources for both parents and teachers.
Bill thought of everything and in doing so he has made teaching a little bit easier. I’m sure children will appreciate this story too.
Thank you to the publisher @MascotBooks for the ARC!
Unfortunately, things are not as they hoped they would be. Hope and Freckles are faced with trying circumstances and fear the worst. Hope is hopeful and Freckles is scared but they are able to withstand the troubles they face.
The illustrations are lovely and they emit a sense of calm despite the turmoil that Hope and Freckles face. There is a cohesiveness between the story and its illustrations, they compliment each other nicely.
The author wrote this book to address the issue relating to the treatment of refugees. Bill has done a fantastic job of addressing the uncomfortable issue at a level that children can relate to. I immediately saw that value of this book through the eyes of a teacher. This book is an excellent way to engage young children and introduce the topic of refugees. The author has even included vocabulary and discussion questions at the end of the book to support an introductory lesson. Also included are resources for both parents and teachers.
Bill thought of everything and in doing so he has made teaching a little bit easier. I’m sure children will appreciate this story too.
Thank you to the publisher @MascotBooks for the ARC!
May 13, 2020
Hope and Freckles is a picture book about the refugee experience but told from the perspective of a doe and her fawn. Hope wants to move out of the dangerous forest with her young fawn, Freckles. Life around them is becoming more and more dangerous. They make the journey to the border of the Pine Forest where they are met with a gate and guards.
The story itself was a little too deep for my kindergartener but was good for my 4th grader. I had to do a lot of explaining to my little guy about what the author was trying to say about refugees. I recommend for older elementary students. Perhaps 2nd grade and up. It can definitely lead to some good conversations with them about human rights.
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The story itself was a little too deep for my kindergartener but was good for my 4th grader. I had to do a lot of explaining to my little guy about what the author was trying to say about refugees. I recommend for older elementary students. Perhaps 2nd grade and up. It can definitely lead to some good conversations with them about human rights.
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2020
"Hope and Freckles" by Bill Kiley is a story about the refugee experience told through the eyes of a doe and her baby fawn. Hope and Freckles (the deer) find that their home forest has become dangerous and they flee to find a safer place to live. They arrive at their new home to find it gated and guarded by people who won't let them in. Will they be able to enter and live in safety? Will they have to return to their previous home with all of the existing dangers?
This book took us by surprise. We didn't know much about the story before picking it up, so as an adult reading it I was a little nervous about where the story would go. I found myself wishing I had pre-read the book solo before deciding to read it aloud to my kids. However, the book does explain the immigrant experience without outlining any situations that may potentially scare young readers. I do believe it is important to discuss these concepts with children, but the book may be better suited for slightly older kids. If you have young ones, you may want to read through the book first and plan out how you will discuss the book. There is a great section in the back with key terms and definitions that can assist adults with the post book dialogue process. Also to note- the illustrations are great. Our little ones loved the deer and thought they were extremely cute. I think the fact that the story utilized adorable woodland creatures to tell the story makes it more adapted to the younger audience.
This book took us by surprise. We didn't know much about the story before picking it up, so as an adult reading it I was a little nervous about where the story would go. I found myself wishing I had pre-read the book solo before deciding to read it aloud to my kids. However, the book does explain the immigrant experience without outlining any situations that may potentially scare young readers. I do believe it is important to discuss these concepts with children, but the book may be better suited for slightly older kids. If you have young ones, you may want to read through the book first and plan out how you will discuss the book. There is a great section in the back with key terms and definitions that can assist adults with the post book dialogue process. Also to note- the illustrations are great. Our little ones loved the deer and thought they were extremely cute. I think the fact that the story utilized adorable woodland creatures to tell the story makes it more adapted to the younger audience.
August 8, 2020
Hope and Freckles are a baby and a mother deer who live in the Olden Forest. The Olden Forest was becoming dangerous for Hope and Freckles. The summers were hotter, there was less food and water and the persistent threat for life from other carnivores and hunters. Hope, Freckles and other deers walk to the Big Pine Forest to take refuge but the guards don’t let them in because the Forest had enough white-tailed deer. When they plead to let them in, they separate Hope and Freckles. Freckles is taken to another family and Hope lives in a fenced area waiting for her child. Will Hope see Freckles again?
This book explains with animal characters and eye-catching images, the immigration scenario in the United States and other countries. It is a good book to teach children why people take refuge, why they are denied entry to a new country, and also their suffering when children are torn from their parents and hopefully reunited later.
I was surprised to learn that the author is a retired Deputy Police Chief and also a retired Colonel from the U.S. Army. At the age of 70, he published this picturebook for his granddaughters. This is the first book in the series.
This book explains with animal characters and eye-catching images, the immigration scenario in the United States and other countries. It is a good book to teach children why people take refuge, why they are denied entry to a new country, and also their suffering when children are torn from their parents and hopefully reunited later.
I was surprised to learn that the author is a retired Deputy Police Chief and also a retired Colonel from the U.S. Army. At the age of 70, he published this picturebook for his granddaughters. This is the first book in the series.
May 9, 2020
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
This is such a beautifully written and illustrated book that reflects upon such a recent topic that is occurring in the world today. Hope and Freckles are refugees who seek safety and are fleeing from harmful animals and environments around them. This book was so tenderly done it brought tears to my eyes.
At the end of the book there are discussion questions to talk about the story together too.
This is such a beautifully written and illustrated book that reflects upon such a recent topic that is occurring in the world today. Hope and Freckles are refugees who seek safety and are fleeing from harmful animals and environments around them. This book was so tenderly done it brought tears to my eyes.
At the end of the book there are discussion questions to talk about the story together too.
May 18, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Mascot Books for an advance reader copy of this children’s book.
Hope and Freckles is the story of a fawn and her doe as they seek refuge in the Big Pine Forest, It’s a great analogy of current times, as we see Hope and Freckles get separated at the “border” by the guards, and some of their friends being sent back to the dangerous forests they left behind in search of refuge.
The illustrations in this book are gorgeous.
Hope and Freckles is the story of a fawn and her doe as they seek refuge in the Big Pine Forest, It’s a great analogy of current times, as we see Hope and Freckles get separated at the “border” by the guards, and some of their friends being sent back to the dangerous forests they left behind in search of refuge.
The illustrations in this book are gorgeous.
May 5, 2020
"Hope and Freckles" by Bill Kiley is a book that paralleled deer escaping coyotes/dangerous forest to what is going on at the US/Mexico border. I am not sure who the intended audience is for this book. Perhaps it is meant to be used as a conversation piece, but my 10 year old is not familiar with the terms used in this book - refugee, asylum.
My daughter and I read this story together. We both absolutely loved the illustrations, but the first thing she said to me when Hope and Freckles got to the Big Pine Forest was deer can talk? That was a bit unrealistic and perhaps younger children wouldn't notice, but she did. The message around compassion is an excellent one though and if she picked up on anything from this book it was definitely that.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mascot Books for this dARC in exchange for an honest review.
My daughter and I read this story together. We both absolutely loved the illustrations, but the first thing she said to me when Hope and Freckles got to the Big Pine Forest was deer can talk? That was a bit unrealistic and perhaps younger children wouldn't notice, but she did. The message around compassion is an excellent one though and if she picked up on anything from this book it was definitely that.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mascot Books for this dARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2020
Beautiful, peaceful story about finding a safe place. The relationship between mother and child is positive and loving. I recommend this picture book for reading with your children before bed. I love a happy ending before bed!
September 6, 2021
Hope and her baby boy, Freckles, live in a forest that is becoming increasingly dangerous because of other animals. It also is starting to lack the food and water that all the animals need. To keep Freckles safe, Hope decides she and Freckles need to find a new home--one plentiful in food, water, and safety. After traveling many days, along with other refugees from their home forest, they come to another forest that has a gate around it and two guards keeping them from entering. Hope pleads for them and the other families. They are allowed in a restricted area until "The General" can decide what to do with them in the future. The children are separated from their parents then eventually moved to another area and put under the custody of other deer. Finally the decision is made by "The General." Will Hope and Freckles be able to stay and be together again? What about the other deer and animals who traveled with them?
I liked that a specific face is given to Hope and Freckles. While animals are used, it humanizes the plight of so many people (or in this case, animals) in this world today. It does not take on the whole displacement but rather a small personal piece--Hope and Freckles. While it mentions others who came along with them, the face of the refugees is Hope and Freckles, not the whole village.
This is not preachy in any way but it is informative. The drawings are wonderful and I fell in love with Hope and Freckles and saw their dangers though the illustrations. I appreciated the definitions, discussion questions, and resource list for further investigation and discussion. I also appreciated the bio of Bill Kiley, the author, who shared his credentials. Very well done. I look forward to the next story of Hope and Freckles and hope that Hope's wish for Freckles comes true.
I liked that a specific face is given to Hope and Freckles. While animals are used, it humanizes the plight of so many people (or in this case, animals) in this world today. It does not take on the whole displacement but rather a small personal piece--Hope and Freckles. While it mentions others who came along with them, the face of the refugees is Hope and Freckles, not the whole village.
This is not preachy in any way but it is informative. The drawings are wonderful and I fell in love with Hope and Freckles and saw their dangers though the illustrations. I appreciated the definitions, discussion questions, and resource list for further investigation and discussion. I also appreciated the bio of Bill Kiley, the author, who shared his credentials. Very well done. I look forward to the next story of Hope and Freckles and hope that Hope's wish for Freckles comes true.
July 23, 2020
This was a very innocent story about immigration. I loved the metaphor. I know, I am not the target market, but I love these small picture books.
The story was a solid four out of five. I missed some heartwarming moments, but I liked it overall.
The pictures were beautiful. I loved the art style.
I recommend this one for adults also because it can be enjoyable for them, too.
The story was a solid four out of five. I missed some heartwarming moments, but I liked it overall.
The pictures were beautiful. I loved the art style.
I recommend this one for adults also because it can be enjoyable for them, too.
May 8, 2020
Hope and Freckles’ quest for a new home is the perfect allegory for the global refugee crisis. Timely and heartwarming, through our characters we learn that no other parts of life can truly flourish without a home.
July 25, 2020
It's one of the stories that made me feel warm. It shows the love of a parent to her child and vice versa. The illustrations are as good as the story.
August 5, 2020
What a moving book! After I read it I found myself thinking about it for the rest of the day and talking to people about it 🤣 It’s about a mother deer and her baby that have to leave their forest because it’s becoming too dangerous. They head to another forest but are not allowed in at first and become separated. They have to face a long stressful process before eventually being reunited in their new home. It’s wonderfully presented and illustrated perfectly to capture the attention of a young audience. Addressing an important and very real message about the plight of refugees and asylum seekers throughout the world in a way that isn’t too heavy or hard to relate to. Honestly it’s not every day you find a book like this! Highly recommend everyone add this one to their Children’s Bookshelf 👏
May 3, 2020
Beautifully illustrated and with an important message, this book just slightly missed the mark for me.
Whilst the overall metaphor of the book was blatantly clear, some of the narrative was a little confusing for me. I acknowledge that I am not the intended audience for this book so it could be that a younger reader has an easier time with this however it could also go the other way and soar over their heads.
I would recommend giving this book a try - especially as it is telling the story that many refugees face - it just wasn't for me.
Whilst the overall metaphor of the book was blatantly clear, some of the narrative was a little confusing for me. I acknowledge that I am not the intended audience for this book so it could be that a younger reader has an easier time with this however it could also go the other way and soar over their heads.
I would recommend giving this book a try - especially as it is telling the story that many refugees face - it just wasn't for me.
June 4, 2020
Hope and Freckles is a story about love illustrated through a mother's quest, Hope, to find a safe place to call home and provide food for her and her baby fawn, Freckles. It is also a story of loss, the loss of family and friends left behind as a result of increasing danger in their current forest home. They hope to find a safer and more welcoming forest.
For parents or teachers seeking ways to explain to children the current plight of child displacement and separation happening in this country today, this book is a must read.
I especially liked the presentation of Hope and Freckles as gentle characters on each page of the story, contrasting with the brusqueness of authority, which could neutralize the fear which young readers might experience.
My congratulations to Bill Kiley for this appealing storytelling and masterful illustration.
My congratulations to Bill Kiley for his appealing storytelling and masterful illustration,
For parents or teachers seeking ways to explain to children the current plight of child displacement and separation happening in this country today, this book is a must read.
I especially liked the presentation of Hope and Freckles as gentle characters on each page of the story, contrasting with the brusqueness of authority, which could neutralize the fear which young readers might experience.
My congratulations to Bill Kiley for this appealing storytelling and masterful illustration.
My congratulations to Bill Kiley for his appealing storytelling and masterful illustration,
August 16, 2020
Hope loved her forest but the wind of change brought danger with, the kind that was human and deceiving. Though hope had no idea why the deers were sent back into the forest without their fawns, she was happy that finally she and freckles were united. They got to live in the safety and comfort of their new home in the forest behind the fence, away from the dangers in Olden forest. A lovely heartwarming tale of love and trust.
April 27, 2020
How do we convey to children the gut wrenching story of refugees, and consider with them how to respond to their plight? Bill Kiley’s first book, Hope and Freckles: Fleeing to a New Forest, offers a moving, helpful allegory. Picture books give to children (and their care-givers) something analogous to a box of crayons or sleeve of tempera paint: an enticing palette of ideas and emotions, even wisdom, that we can use to sketch out what we most value. Empathy, courage, resilience, humor, honesty, accountability to self and others were each embodied in the stack of dog-eared favorites we kept beside our daughter’s bed or in a basket by the “cozy chair,” as she called it. In one way or another, each of those books humanized us, holding up a mirror to who we are and who we hope to be—Hope and Freckles is one of those stories.
The Rev. David Ware, Rector
The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer
5603 North Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21210
The Rev. David Ware, Rector
The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer
5603 North Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21210
May 3, 2020
This was a sweet story. The illustrations were gorgeous! It's the story about Hope and her son Freckles move to another forest because they were running out of resources in their current forest.
But I was expecting more from the story, and it kinda let me down. It was heartwarming enough.
But I was expecting more from the story, and it kinda let me down. It was heartwarming enough.
June 5, 2020
This is a gorgeous book, but beautifully stunning illustrations. It is a very somber tale to start, and opens your eyes to being separated from loved ones, especially in this time. The story is great and r ally teaches a lesson. It is a slightly longer book, so it took two days for me to read it to her, so she could enjoy it, and she did!
July 11, 2020
Hope and Freckles by Bill Kiley is a sweet story with a big message. When these deer flee their unsafe home for a new forrest they're met with difficulties getting in and mother and fawn are separated by those in charge. Eventually, they are reunited and have a happy ending, but this is a great conversation starter for kids about refugees.
Many thanks to Mascot Books and NetGalley for the advance copy.
Many thanks to Mascot Books and NetGalley for the advance copy.
April 17, 2020
Hope and Freckles can be the story of countless families fleeing dire, dangerous and hopeless situations in their homeland who are striving to find a new home that can afford them the hope and opportunity for a better life. A dream that is possible to come true in a new country that has a history of welcoming families like Hope and Freckles and their friends. The author has taken a current problematic international issue to a thoughtful and kinder level that will help his readers of all ages, but especially children, to appreciate and understand how fortunate we are to live in this country (our forest of hope and opportunity); and, how challenging, scary and difficult it is for newcomers with dreams of a new life to be allowed into "our forest," "our country." Bill Kiley's compassion, sensitivity and appreciation for the issues addressed in "Hope and Freckles Fleeing to a Better Forest," the story exercises, at the end, to define and question the reader's understanding of the story's message, and the beautiful illustrations taking the reader into the forest with Hope and Freckles make this book, by Bill Kiley, a MUST read for "children" of all ages. I'm looking forward to my grandchildren reading the book, and having a thoughtful discussion afterward.
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