The White Raven

Assonance propels rhythmic narration in Otoshi’s concept-driven story about a white raven. Interrogative lines frame each spread, with a pointed initial question providing a jumping-off point for deeper rumination: “If a raven is born different,/ what could happen?” Alongside fluid azure paintings, the queries trace the sorrowful possibility of rejection by other ravens (“Will its mother PROTECT it.../ or REJECT it?”). But the tone shifts to one of gentle hopefulness upon the arrival of a pale-skinned, dark-haired child who brings a palette of pinks and yellows to the page, as well as openhearted concern for the abandoned bird (“Will she HELP it.../ or TEASE it?”). And as the driving questions become loftier (“Can fears be overcome.../ through understanding and LOVE?”), the bird’s upward flight seems to provide an uplifting answer for readers to hold onto. An author’s note anchors the story in scientific fact. Ages 4–8. (May)