- Publisher: Piscataqua Press
- Available in: Hardcover
- ISBN: 1633810917
- Published: January 1, 2016
Set in the cold winter woods, this story is a series of events in how a young boy learns about survival while a porcupine joins her prickle.
Just outside Bailey’s front door, snow was falling in clumps from the evergreen boughs where the sun was shining, but it remained frozen solid in the shade, creating an ice-cold winter playground perfect for exploring.
“Mom,” Bailey shouts. “Have you seen my snowshoes?”
“I’m going out for a walk in the woods.”
Bailey’s excitement to learn more about what exists in his backyard forest takes him on the path to an extraordinary discovery.
Excerpt
In front of me I see a big hemlock tree with patches of granite rocks circling the large trunk.
A dark hollow has been dug between the roots.
Who dug this hole?
I am curious and bend low to peek into the darkness.
Who is in there?
Testimonials
A Porcupine’s Promenade is a special story that envelops you in the memorable uniqueness that surprise encounters with backyard wildlife can bring. The writing and illustrations capture the wonder and magic of winter in a way that will encourage readers to strike out on their own nature expeditions.
—Susan Dee, K–5 Literacy Strategist, RSU5 Freeport, Durham, Pownal
This is a beautifully visual superbly written book in which to integrate science and language arts.
— Sheila Wells, K–8 STEM Coordinator, RSU21 Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Arundel
Finally, an engaging informational narrative. The story generates a quiet adventurous atmosphere that prompts children’s wonder.
—Gretchen Greenberg, Early Childhood Consultant
“I loved this book. I didn’t know porcupines walked in the snow; do they really do that? And, the snowy pictures had me shivering. I wish I could be this little boy in the story. I’ve never been that close to a forest animal. I want to know more about porcupines; do they really climb trees that high? I’d be scared. Do you think that porcupine was scared? It’s such a nice story. My favorite page is this one where the porcupine is peeking out of her den under the tree. She has nice brown eyes; just like mine.”
—1st grade student, Kennebunk Elementary School
“It’s really nice to see all of the porcupine’s together. I never heard of a porcupine being out in the snow. I think she dreams of more bark. This was a really nice story.”—1st grade student, Kennebunk Elementary School
“This beautiful book perfectly captures the excitement and joy of a child exploring the wonders of the natural world. In this age of “nature deficit disorder” and too much screen time, stories like ‘A Porcupine’s Promenade’ are not only inspirational but essential.”-Rachel Q. Davis, Assistant Director/Youth Services Librarian, Thomas Memorial Library
“A Porcupine’s Promenade: An Encounter in the Winter Woods is a delightfully quiet book that is bound to captivate children and adults alike, especially those that enjoy all that nature has to offer. Highly Recommended.”
“A Porcupine’s Promenade allows readers of all ages the experience of connecting with our wild Maine neighbors and living peacefully alongside them. I adore this book for its accurate and factual information that is presented in such a beautiful and magical way. Hogan’s artwork draws the reader in visually while Smith’s account of an actual encounter brings the connection and appreciation of nature to life.”
-Sarah Bunker Kern, M.Ed., Education and Outreach Coordinator, Center for Wildlife, Cape Neddick, Maine