Henry the Snail - (Katarina's Small Wonders) by Katarina Macurova (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Selected for 2024 CBC Children's Favorites Gr K-2

Selected for The Children's Book Council's June 2023 "Hot Off The Press" Reading List

A gentle story about a little snail called Henry who was born without slime and therefore will never be like everyone else.

When Henry finds out he is missing the most important element for snails--their slime--giving up is not an option for him. He tries to find ways to be able to climb things just as the other snails do. He struggles a bit before he finds the right solution, but in the end, he becomes the inspiration for his fellow snails and makes a lot of friends along the way, teaching us that far from being an obstacle, a difference may prove to be the key that opens new horizons.

Using a simple story and a sympathetic hero the kids learn social-emotional skills and are better prepared to cope with everyday life situations.

Review Quotes

Featured in the CBC Fall 2024 Showcase: Small Moments of Gratitude.

Selected for CBC's Summer Showcase 2024: Imagination Celebration

Selected for 2024 CBC Children's Favorites Gr K-2

Selected for The Children's Book Council's June 2023 "Hot Off The Press" Reading List

"This is a sweet tale of perseverance and of not letting a disability define oneself. The hand-lettered text is easy to read, and the artwork is gorgeous - the garden greenery and bugs are beautifully rendered in a realistic style, while still imbuing the insects with personality." --Stephanie Tournas, Robbins Library, Arlington, MA

"This is a sweet tale of perseverance and of not letting a disability define oneself. The hand-lettered text is easy to read, and the artwork is gorgeous - the garden greenery and bugs are beautifully rendered in a realistic style, while still imbuing the insects with personality." --Youth Services Book Review

"Henry the Snail helps kids learn social-emotional skills. The story is about handicaps, coping with them, yearning, empowerment, and solidarity. I highly recommend this book." --Storywraps

"I really like when a children's book is entertaining and is also able to sneak in some life lessons without it feeling preachy. [. . .] My grandson enjoyed this story and the artwork, and he was able to share with me what lessons Henry learned along the way. It's a great book and one that would be a great addition to any library; public, personal, and educational. 5 stars!" --Goodreads/NetGalley-Reviewer

"I think this is a great book for teaching about diversity and disability, growth mindset and even just being special and unique. I could definitely see this book being in my classroom library and would recommend this book to parents and teachers of children in the age 6-1o range." --NetGalley-Educator

"Snails have never been this cute or this resilient as in this picture book. Henry is just so precious, and I love how he accepts his limitations and his strengths! [. . .] The illustrations are so much fun! Have you ever seen a snail lifting peas, working his abbs or wear a clown's costume? You totally should because it's hilarious! You can clearly see how all animals are equally respected, which is rare in a book about overcoming your weaknesses." --Milou Reads Books IG

"This snail's-eye view of the world and his place in it offers important lessons on willpower, overcoming adversity, and accepting differences that will serve as fine food for thought and discussion between adults and kids. The inviting story is highly recommended for libraries looking for lessons in positive thinking and diverse approaches to life." --Donovan's Literary Services

"I LOVE snails and the snail story time I do, and this book was adorable! It will definitely be making its way into my snail story time list!" --NetGalley-Librarian

"Readers young and old will be giggling and rooting for Henry the snail as he learns to navigate around the garden without slime (which, we learn, is very useful for snails!)" --Titcomb's Bookshop

"What a cute book! Little Henry is so adorable. I love his can-do spirit and his tenacity! What a great message for little readers who might feel inadequate or weak. A positive attitude can work wonders in any situation! I love the pretty illustrations! Every page is full of lovely flowers and greenery, and the designs for the little snails and slugs are so cute!" --Luminous Libro Blog

"Henry wants to climb the plants and flowers in the garden with all the other snails, but Henry is different in one important way: he has no slime. Determined to find his own way to climb, Henry begins training; he drags pebbles, lifts peas, and balances peach pits until he is strong enough. Facing down the tallest flower in the garden, however, Henry learns that sometimes the strongest thing to do is ask for help." --Foreword

"The illustrations are fun and with plenty of details to enjoy, and I especially enjoyed Henry's great facial expressions that convey his determination and frustration. The story is a unique little tale for teaching the importance of not giving up as well as celebrating differences." --Kiss the Book Jr

"At the heart of the story is the message about overcoming adversity and the importance of community. I liked the illustrations as well as the message. Henry climbing with his eye stalks was cute and furthered my engagement with the story. Overall, this was a great book to use when teaching themes about disabilities, perseverance, and community." --Connie Reid, YA Books Central

"This book will help young children know the power of not giving up and helping one another. The illustrations are beautiful showcasing many different plants found in a backyard garden." --Sreymom Serey, Puget Sound Council for Reviewing Children's and Young Adult Literature

"I really like Macurova's delicate drawings and, no matter how you feel about snails, the portrayal of the miniature world of the garden is irresistible. This is a also a celebration of differences; Henry can't make it on his own, but freely asks for help. In return, he teaches the other creatures his own skills and doesn't feel bad that he's no longer the only snail with his unique talents." --Jean Little Library

About the Author

Born in 1983, Katarina Macurova is an award-winning artist whose innovative work spans from graphics and illustration to 3D graphics. She studied at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Bratislava, Slovakia, and has won several prestigious awards, including the Communication Arts Award of Excellence in the USA. Hailing from Bratislava, Slovakia, she continues to push the boundaries of her artistry.