Move Mountain

Mountain has never seen the sunrise. Although the sun’s rays touched the hills around him with light and colour, he always remained in the shade whilst the sun rose behind his back. When he shares his feelings with Bird, she asks everyone to help. In spite of their best efforts, Mountain still cannot see the sunrise; however, Bird has a clever idea…

‘Move Mountain’ is a lovely story about friendship and kindness. Being a true friend, Bird is determined to help Mountain with his wish and quickly enlists the other animals to help her. Having tried to move Mountain so he can see, they use words to describe the sunrise and then music, but neither of these ideas work, leading them to use their imaginations and get creative! Mountain still might not be able to see the sunrise, but the kindness of his friends has made him feel warm and loved. There is so much here to discuss and enjoy with children, particularly exploring how being thoughtful can make a huge difference!

The story could also be used to inspire work in school. The play on words- being ‘moved’ emotionally rather than physically as well as the phrase ‘to move mountains’- could be used to start a collection of idioms and expressions in English- and other languages if possible-, encouraging children to explore this use of language. Children could also use words and music to describe a sunrise (or anything!) for each other and perhaps look at pieces by artists, poets and musicians inspired by such events.

The illustrations are lovely, full of life and colour. Mountain, for all his size, has such a gentle face, expressing so much character!

Move Mountain

Corrinne Averiss, illustrated by Greg McLeod

OUP ISBN: 978-0192778666