

In a touching poetic novel, a fall apple ritual–along with some inventive storytelling–brings a family together as they grieve the loss of a beloved family member. When the first apple falls from the tree, Faith and Peter know that it’s applesauce weather, even though Peter is getting a little old for such things. It also means Uncle Arthur should be here to tell his stories, with a twinkle in his eye as he spins tales about how he came to have a missing finger. But this is the first year without Aunt Lucy, and when Uncle Arthur arrives, there’s no twinkle to be found and no stories waiting to be told. Faith is certain, though, that with a little love and patience, she and Peter might finally learn the truth about that missing finger. Paired with warm, expressive illustrations by Amy June Bates, this heartfelt tale by award-winning poet Helen Frost highlights the strength of family and the power of a good story.
Helen Frost is the author of Step Gently Out, Sweep Up the Sun, Among a Thousand Fireflies, and Wake Up! She is also the author of the novel in poems Applesauce Weather and many other award-winning books for children and young adults. Helen Frost lives in Indiana.
Amy June Bates has illustrated books including the Sam the Man series, Sweet Dreams and That’s What I’d Do, both by singer-songwriter Jewel; and Waiting for the Magic by Patricia MacLachlan. She lives in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, with her husband and three children.
Nothing yet! Let Helen Frost know that you want to hear from them about their book.
Nothing yet! Let Amy June Bates know that you want to hear from them about their book.
More than halfway there—keep going!
Just the barebones.
Are you the author or illustrator? Claim your book.