Don Kilby
Don Kilby's unique vision of rural life stems partly from the time he spent on the prairie and partly from the myriad jobs he has held. He has worked as a lumberjack, steelworker, paper boy and an in-house graphic artist.
Born in Grimsby, Ontario, Don has lived in Hamilton and Victoria, BC and now makes his home in Toronto. He extensively researched pioneer life on the prairies to ensure the realism that is apparent in Prairie Fire.
When he is not mountain biking, exploring old ruins or getting lost on purpose, Don can be found presenting to school groups, working on his latest book or teaching drawing and illustration at a local college.
Reviews
The Prairie Fire
Marilynn Reynolds
Illustrated by Don Kilby
Percy is a young lad living with his mother and father in a sod house on the prairie. His parents are concerned because the land is dry and there is the possibility that a prairie fire will sweep across the dry grass, destroying everything in its path. Father tells Percy to "Watch for a cloud of smoke in the sky." Father goes out to plow a fireguard around their home and barn. Percy wants to help, but he is always told that he is not big enough or old enough. Then one quiet October morning, Percy spots a dark cloud. As the cloud becomes larger, he realizes it is smoke. A fire is burning its way across the prairie and will soon be threatening his home. Percy warns his parents and then he is called upon to help. All thoughts of his being too young are forgotten because he is sorely needed. As Percy and his parents valiantly protect their property with buckets of water and gunny sacks used to beat out the flames, the well-illustrated story builds in excitement and tension. 1999, Orca, Ages 5 to 8, $14.95. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford
ISBN: 1-55143-137-8
Added 1999
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