"Mouse liked being together with Bear
and Rabbit. Still, it was scary. But Mouse
ran inside to get something - a first-aid
kit, because you never know - then
hopped into Bear's truck."
Early readers are going to be very pleased to meet the inhabitants of Whiskers Hollow. We can only hope that this will be their first adventure of many. It begins with Bear and his desire to be out in the sunshine for a drive. He's fast, but generally good at driving. On this day, an accident with an acorn results in a broken headlight and the need to find a new one. Now, he has a purpose.
He wants Rabbit to join him. It being lunch time is not an excuse. Off they go, planning to stop for a snack as they go. Bear is sure that Rabbit will be helpful in the search. On they go to Mouse's house. Mouse is a worrier and not sure about joining the two. Bear cajoles with the promise of making this trip together. A final stop for Donkey, and they are on their way to Elephant's Old Junk Tree. Donkey can help with directions. He goes on ahead, aboard his speedy scooter.
The first obstacle is a rickety bridge meant to take them from one tree to the next. No problem. Finally, a thorny tunnel leads them right to Elephant and his mounds of junk. Headlight? No, sir! But, so much more! A slight mishap, an elephantine solution, and a surprise discovery brings this first adventure to an end.
What a world for young readers to discover! Steve Light is adept with gouache, pen and ink, and with providing attention-grabbing details. Through these illustrations he captures and showcases the individuality of his characters, right down to the treasures they find within the confines of Elephant's 'junk'. Oh, and don't miss the endpaper's map.
What a world to discover!
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