Princeton Architectural Press | 978-1616897239

Mrs. Badger has seen many things in her life.  She knows which mushrooms are delicious in ragout, and which are poisonous. And when she happens upon a friend in need, she “helps the best she can…”

Each Sunday Mrs. Badger travels up the mountain. Along the way, she stops to say hello to Frederic, her friend the white-throated sparrow, she picks treats for her friend Alexander, she helps Turtle right himself before continuing on her way.

“Every Sunday is the same.” Or… almost. One day, as she makes her way up the mountain path, Mrs. Badger has the feeling someone is watching her! When she stops to have a snack, she invites the “someone” to sit down with her. “There’s enough for both of us, if you’re hungry,” she says.

CLICK TO ENLARGE © Words and Illustrations by Marianne Dubuc

Lulu the cat comes out from behind the bushes.

“Is it true that you have climbed to the top of the mountain?” she asks Mrs. Badger.

“Yes, it’s called Sugarloaf Peak.”

“I’d like to go up there too,” says Lulu.

With warm, welcoming words, Mrs. Badger invites Lulu to join her. When Lulu remains uncertain, Mrs. Badger continues on her way. But it isn’t long before Lulu finds her courage and joins Mrs. Badger on the path to Sugarloaf Peak.

Lulu asks a lot of questions! Mrs. Badger is quick to answer, all the while teaching Lulu to pay attention to the beauty and creatures that surround them.

Originally published in French, UP THE MOUNTAIN PATH, written and illustrated by Marianne Dubuc is a story of emerging friendship, but it is more. A quiet, thoughtful book about kindness, mindful attention, and the ways in which the seeds of friendship grow.