The 2023 Texas Bluebonnet Award-winning picture book is a heartwarming tale of a pet tortoise learning to deal with loss.
Oliver the tortoise has had his human, Ike, for a very, very long time now. In fact, they're the same age--80 years old--and practically twins. They both enjoy the slowness of the garden, cool water from the hose on a hot day, and a nice slice of honeydew melon. But when Ike stops visiting the garden, Oliver wonders why his pet has left him so soon. So he makes the long journey to see his mother ten gardens away--she will certainly have the answer.
This tender story from the author and illustrator that brought us Memoirs of a Goldfish reminds us to cherish all the days we have with our pets and loved ones.
Even at a young age, Tim Bowers's artwork reflected a strong sense of humor and an interest in animals. Prior to illustrating children's books, Tim worked as an artist for Hallmark Cards, where he helped launch the popular Shoebox Greetings card line. His first children's book, The Toy Circus, was published in 1986. He now has illustrated more than 25 children's books and garnered various awards including the Chicago Public Library's "Best of the Best" list and several Junior Library Guild selections. Tim's artwork has been included in the Society of Illustrators Annual Art Exhibition and the S.I. Humor Exhibition, as well as featured in children's magazines, used on a wide variety of products, and appeared on hundreds of greeting cards. Original paintings from several books are in private and institutional collections across the country. Tim lives with his family in Granville, Ohio, and travels to schools and libraries to share his work with students.
Husband, Disney lover, tortoise dad, and wannabe amateur cook. My Tweets belong to me.
I had the privilege of reading to Mrs Shuler’s third grade class for reading month. Memoirs of a Tortoise by Devin Scillian, and then afterwards, our very own Sheldon the tortoise made a surprise appearance. @SimsElementary @bsimsmedia https://t.co/HBs8YFLbfg
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The winner of the 2023 Texas Bluebonnet Award is Memoirs of a Tortoise, written by Devin Scillian and illustrated by Tim Bowers!👏 In this beautifully illustrated book, Oliver the tortoise enjoys a wonderful friendship with his “pet,” his owner, Ike. Come check it out today! https://t.co/cS581AjX9D
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More than 70,000 students across Texas voted and the results are in! The winner of the 2023 Texas Bluebonnet Award is Memoirs of a Tortoise, written by Devin Scillian and illustrated by Tim Bowers. @txla @TBABooks @devinscillian #timbowers @SleepingBearBks https://t.co/UhTkHurOMw https://t.co/5leprtCwXM