Thunder and the Noise Storms

Thunder is a peaceful boy who finds the tumult of sounds in his daily life overwhelming. For instance, the school bus is full of children laughing as passing cars honk at them. The clamor continues in school at gym and music classes. By recess, Thunder has had enough. He yells at his bewildered peers before hiding away, upset and lonely. The principal sends for his mosom (grandfather) with whom Thunder has a loving and understanding relationship. As they walk, Mosom explains there is a special word to help him overcome his fear of noise. It is ‘mamaskasitawew’ which means ‘to listen with wonder’. Mosom helps Thunder realize that he has control over his reactions.

Thunder and the Noise Storms is an unusual gentle and reflective book, one that conveys the wisdom of the relationship between First Nations people and their connection to nature, providing a universal but often forgotten message. Mosom encourages Thunder to focus on the quiet external peaceful noises, such as leaves rustling and the sound of birds. He encourages Thunder to breathe deeply and listen to the reassuring sound of his own heart beating, ‘Badoom, Badoom, Badoom.’ The loving and trusting relationship between Mosom and Thunder is a rich and positive example of intergenerational love.
Large expressive art-work across double pages is a compelling complement to the clear and deceptively simple message of the text. The pictures reveal life in a rural First Nations community and provide tangibility to the elusiveness of nature. The illustrations, in somber colors that subtly brighten with Thunder’s understanding, invite detailed scrutiny and highlight Mosom’s gentle message.

With its kindly wisdom and appreciation of nature, Thunder and the Noise Storms is a heartwarming title for children aged 4-7 and perfect for sharing between generations or at storytime.