Wild Bog Tea

LeBox, A. (2001). Wild bog tea. Toronto, Ontario: Groundwood Books.

Author:
Annette LeBox

Illustrator:
Harvey Chan

Summary:
Told in flash backs, a man remembers times with his grandfather and the bog next to where he lived. As the boy grows into a man the bog grows along side of him. Even after his grandfather passes away the bog continues to grow and change and when the man is gone it will continue to do so.

Response and Reaction:
This story is beautifully and poetically told, memories are mixed with images of wildlife. The book concludes with an Author’s Note that details different plants and animals that can be found in the real life Blaney Bog in British Columbia. Harvey Chan’s sketch illustrations using color pencils on a collage of papers look like pieces of a scrap book reflecting the tone of the story. The story is sad, involving the death of an elderly character, but beautifully captures how life continues on in memories and nature.

Format:
Picture Book

Age Range:
4-8 years old

Themes:
Nature, aging, family, wildlife, death

Awards:
Governor Generals Literary Awards (NOMINATED) 2001