Friday Memes: Saving Winslow by Sharon Creech

Book Beginnings is hosted by Rose City Reader and Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice.

Saving Winslow by Sharon Creech. 165 p. Joanna Cotler Books/ HarperCollins Publisher, September 11, 2018. 9780062570734. 

Publisher synopsis: Louie doesn't have the best of luck when it comes to nurturing small creatures. So when his father brings home a sickly newborn mini-donkey, he's determined to save him. He names him Winslow. Taking care of him helps Louie feel closer to his brother, Gus, who is far, far away in the army.

Everyone worries that Winslow won't survive, especially Louie's quirky new friend, Nora, who has experienced loss of her own. But as Louie's bond with Winslow grows, surprising and life-altering events prove that this fragile donkey is stronger than anyone could have imagined.

First line: In the laundry basket on the kitchen floor was a lump.

Page 56: 
      "Erm. yes. Not my favorite job. [changing Winslow's diapers] I also have to give him shots."
     "Shots? You know how to do that?"
     "Still learning."
     "Claudine stroked Winslow's head. "Will he make it?"
     "He'll make it, Louie said. "He will."

I adore Sharon Creech. I am writing/ scheduling this Tuesday and will have finished it by the time I board my plane home from ALAAC18 later; but I already know I am in love. I was from the very first line, which instantly reminded me of another memorable and classic first line, "Where's papa going with that ax?" Indeed, Saving Winslow may be an instant classic.