Almost Time - A Father-Son Story About Patience and Seasons
A tender father-and-son story about the passage of time, the change of seasons, and the excitement of reaching a goal.
Eager for maple syrup, Ethan can't wait till sugaring time rolls around. And he can't wait till his loose tooth falls out. But his father keeps telling him it's not time yet, and no matter how hard he tries, he can't make time pass more quickly. The closeness of father and son is evident throughout as they wait and then celebrate the end of waiting.
Perfect for Young Readers Ages 4-8
This hardcover picture book combines a lyrical, brief text with beautifully composed illustrations by award-winning artist G. Brian Karas. The story captures the universal childhood experience of waiting for something special while teaching valuable lessons about patience and the natural rhythms of seasons.
Themes and Learning Opportunities
Almost Time offers multiple teaching moments for parents and educators. The book explores maple sugaring traditions, the anticipation of losing a first tooth, and the special bond between fathers and sons. It's an ideal read-aloud for bedtime or classroom settings, helping children understand that some things worth having are worth waiting for.
About the Creative Team
Gary D. Schmidt is the best-selling author of Pay Attention, Carter Jones; Orbiting Jupiter; the Newbery Honor and Printz Honor book Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy; and the Newbery Honor Book The Wednesday Wars. He is a professor of English at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Elizabeth Stickney is the pseudonym of Anne Stickney Schmidt, the late wife of writer Gary D. Schmidt. The author of poems, essays, and picture books, she spent her childhood winters in Maine and waited eagerly for sugaring time.
G. Brian Karas is the award-winning author and illustrator of many acclaimed picture books. His evocative illustrations bring this touching story to life. He lives in upstate New York.
Book Details
This Clarion Books publication features a hardcover binding, making it durable for repeated readings. The combination of Schmidt's storytelling expertise and Karas's artistic vision creates a memorable experience that resonates with both children and adults.
