Book Review for The Tale of Old Green Eyes by Cathy Kennedy

The Tale of Ole Green Eyes, by Cathy Kennedy

Mirror Publishing
26 Pages
Ages 9-12
Children’s Picture Book  Appalachian Mountains

Born and raised in southern West Virginia in McDowell County (home of the Rocket Boys), Cathy married her best friend and high school sweetheart, Robin, in 1979. Shortly afterward they moved to Knoxville in the Tennessee Valley. Some of her stories were inspired by Robin's grandmother who was a gifted storyteller. Inspiration from one of her true stories led to the creation of The Tale of Ole Green Eyes.

Reviewer: Renee Hand

The Tale of Ole Green Eyes is a fun tale that takes readers back to their childhoods.

The Tale of Ole Green Eyes begins in the Appalachian Mountains where sisters, Brittany and Nicole, are spending some time with their grandparents. Great-Grandma Sarah begins to tell the children a tale from her childhood about Old Green Eyes, a sleek panther she had encountered as her and her sister, Ella, went to fetch a pail of water from the spring near their house. The adventure was something they would never forget as the panther chased them back to their house, right up to their very door.

The sisters remember the tale long after Great-Grandma Sarah leaves to go home. They were amazed by it. As the day progresses with fun activities, like baking cookies and going on a picnic with their grandparents, the sisters decide to discover a clearing in the woods by themselves. So, they go adventuring into the woods, but with the wise words of their Papaw not far from their minds. He tells them to get home before dusk because that’s when the animals come out. As dusk approaches they hear a sound through the trees and the crackling of leaves on the ground. As they turn to head back home, they notice a large track in the dirt. Is Ole Green Eyes coming after them too?

This 26-page picture book is a fun story for children 9-12 years of age. It reminds the reader of spending time with their grandparents and the stories they’ve heard throughout the years. It also rekindles the memories of loved ones who have passed away, but will never be far from our minds. Overall, a great children’s story.

Reviewer Renee Hand is the award-winning author of The Joe-Joe Nut and Biscuit Bill adventure series for children. Look for her new release in the series, Case#2: Mineral Mischief.