Book Description

A goblin is happily making salt-crystal "bling" for himself, until he spots the nymph's green glass beads and is overwhelmed by desire for them. He asks for the beads, he demands the beads, he whines and begs for the beads. But the nymph has her own purpose for the beads, using them to do her science-magic ... Marcia Santore's colorful pictures retell the story of Overheard on a Saltmarsh, introducing Harold Monro's beloved poem to a new generation of children, while raising an important question: Just because some guy asks you for something, does that mean you have to give it him? Children (and adults!) will identify with the envy and desire of the tantruming goblin on the one hand, and with the serious-minded work of the gentle but firm nymph. The book also provides an opportunity to talk with children about when sharing is important and when maintaining personal boundaries is important, as well as the difference between "want" and "need." And that sometimes the right answer is "No." Don't miss the salt crystal-making activity in the back!