An exciting early morning event frames the picture book ‘Snow Geese Season’ by Angela Burke Kunkel, where a grandfather awakens his grandson to witness a remarkable scene. They quietly slide down the stairs and drive past familiar scenery until reaching their destination—a field.
Amid the quiet of dawn, the little boy recalls being tucked under his grandfather’s arm, hearing the soft sounds that quickly grow. It is the annual migration of snow geese. The story highlights a peaceful moment in nature, an experience that becomes a cherished memory.
Kunkel resides in Vermont, near the Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area. Each fall, snow geese cover the area in white as they journey southward. According to Vermont Fish & Wildlife, the best viewing times are early morning and late afternoon, spanning from early October to mid-November.
Illustrating a Quiet Story
Illustrator E.B. Goodale, after reading the manuscript, felt compelled to witness the geese in person. She was captivated by the unique Vermont colors before sunrise: deep blues of the mountains and yellowish oranges of the grass. To bring these colors to life, Goodale used traditional watercolor washes, adding texture and scene through monoprints with oil-based inks. Her final touches involved line work in oil paint to add detailed elements.
‘Snow Geese Season’ involves only two characters and much waiting, presenting Goodale with a challenge to maintain dynamic pages. She portrays the field through binoculars in one scene and offers an aerial view of geese flying over in another. Goodale appreciates quiet stories that evoke emotions and atmosphere through setting.
Bringing Personal Touches
Kunkel notes the familiar details Goodale incorporated into the illustrations, such as houses reminiscent of her own town and outfits worn by the characters. During Goodale’s Vermont visit, Kunkel advised bright gear due to hunters’ presence in the area. Goodale fondly recalls her son wearing a neon orange hat amidst deep blues, which resonated with the book’s theme.
Kunkel appreciates Goodale’s dedication, noting that personal experiences influenced the story. A memory of a serene walk with her uncle in the woods, where no questions were asked, inspired the book’s reflective moments.