I am honoured and excited to share that Thunder and the Noise Storms, created in collaboration with my son, Dr. Jeffrey Ansloos, was nominated for the 2021 Blue Spruce Award.
The Blue Spruce Award celebrates outstanding Canadian picture books and gives young readers the opportunity to recognize the stories that inspire, engage, and connect with them.
Thunder and the Noise Storms is a story about a young boy who feels overwhelmed by the noise of the world around him. With the guidance of his grandfather, he learns that listening can be a powerful way of finding peace. Through the sounds of nature, he discovers a deeper connection to the world around him and learns the beauty of slowing down and paying attention.
This recognition is especially meaningful because the heart of this story is about connection — between generations, between people and nature, and between the quiet wisdom we carry within ourselves.
Creating this book with Jeffrey has been a beautiful journey. We are grateful that Thunder and the Noise Storms has found its way into the hands and hearts of readers, and we are thankful for the recognition from the Blue Spruce Award.
Stories have a way of reminding us to listen. Sometimes, what we need most is already speaking.
Shezza Ansloos 