Long before people settled in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, there lived a great, big, jolly creature called a Wheedle. This fella was large, orange, and had a bright red nose that blinked when he was content. The demeanor of this jolly guy was about to change when the settlers showed up and started building. Not only did their building make noise, but they whistled while they worked! This was grating to the Wheedle who quickly became rather cranky with the newcomers. He tried many things to get the whistling to stop...stealing tools, scaring the men, but nothing worked. So the Wheedle made the tough decision to leave and find someplace peaceful. Mount Rainier became his new home where he slept in peace for many years until the men's building had almost reached the edge of the great mountain. Taking with him a bag of clouds from the top of the mountain the Wheedle decided to exact his revenge. He climbed atop the Space Needle in the town now called, Seattle, and arranged the cloud cover over the city where it rained down on the people. The mayor quickly went to have a talk with the Wheedle who then felt bad for making people sad, so the mayor came up with a compromise. Earmuffs! Giant earmuffs were a gift for the Wheedle who stayed on top of the Needle and slept soundly...nose blinking with joy. This is a sweet story with retro illustrations that are also known in Stephen Cosgrove's Serendipity series as well as his fantastical stories about animals of all kinds. He is a local author and this and his whole collection would be lovely additions to any library.

Not only a twist on the fables that we grew up with but a great how-to story. The story starts off showing the effects that man has on the poor Wheedle and his trying escape from their racket. Although he gets temporary relief he finds himself up and seeing that civilization has advanced to his doorstep.

An entertaining story that is short and simple to read of one creature's attempts to find a place in the world while at the same time the same world having to learn to compromise. And definitely makes me want to visit Seattle although I can imagine what someone may have to say if I yell out Wheedle when I am there lol. ( )

Stephen Cosgrove's books are always totally enchanting. I love the stories, the message found therein, and especially the beautiful illustrations done by Robin James. I have collected these books over the years. WHEEDLE ON THE NEEDLE is what Knrystine brought back to me when she went to Washington to go to school. ( )

One of my most favorite books as a child. ( )

One of my most favorite books as a child. ( )