Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Spreading "hope" with Wings of Epoh

This week I had the pleasure of reading a new book, Wings of Epoh, written by Holocaust survivor, Gerda Weissmann Klein, and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds. I also reviewed the film version of Wings of Epoh, a creative adaption by Peter H. Reynolds and his twin brother, Paul A. Reynolds. Wings of Epoh is about a boy named Matthew who has autism and his friendship with a butterfly named Epoh ("hope" spelled backward). In the story, Matthew relates to Epoh, feeling a special connection as the butterfly tells his story - especially when Epoh explains feeling isolated and alone when encased in a cocoon. Peter H. Reynolds' gentle but colorful illustrations wonderfully complement the story. Wings of Epoh eloquently teaches acceptance, tolerance and empathy, and would be especially helpful for educators, care givers, family members, or anyone who works or interacts with an individual with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, or any child with special needs.

To learn more about Wings of Epoh, click here.