The Three Brothers

July 31, 2020

K-Gr 2-Three young brothers set out to explore their snowy backyard forest. The eldest brother, Finn, leads curious Leo and silly Ooley on their walk, which quickly becomes dominated by a constant, sometimes humorous, flow of conversation. While the tight brotherly bond is apparent, the dialogue wanders off into hints about the detrimental effects of global warming on wildlife, worthy points that nevertheless disrupt the adventurous spirit of their day. The brothers' wish to become explorers inspires their journey, but Finn's musings and Ooley's distracted whims may lead readers to wonder what, if anything, they've learned. Each page spread is delightfully illustrated with Gay's signature mixed-media compositions of soft hues and bright details that draw the eye to moments in the brothers' trek through the serene setting in search of wild animals. Ghostly outlines of wildlife long gone, cleverly hidden in each scene, appear as figments of the brothers' imagination and inspire the boys' large snow creations at story's end. VERDICT Although the book does not successfully combine adventure and fact-finding, children will enjoy following along with the three brothers as they walk through a tranquil, snowy wood.-Rachel Mulligan, Pennsylvania State Univ.

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2020
Young brothers Finn, Leo, and Ooley set off to find wild animals in the woods near their farmhouse. The art--involving pencils, watercolor, wax crayons, and white ink--immediately draws readers in. Three Muppet-like boys with dark hair and beige skin comfortably share a pale-green sofa and a stack of books while birds fly above them and ghostly images of nonthreatening wild mammals surround them. Pastels and muted primary colors form a pleasing palette that continues throughout. "Every night, Finn reads a story to his brothers." The text goes on to say that the boys enjoy stories with adventures and wild animals; middle child Leo suggests that tomorrow, the boys should go exploring for wild animals. By this time, little Ooley is already asleep, setting the stage for more toddler behaviors that will charm young readers. The text is simple, suitable for independent, transitional readers and for reading aloud. As the boys trudge through deep snow--with Ooley in his bear suit always lagging behind--readers, but not the boys, see ghostly animals in and around tree trunks. While the older brothers have a brief discussion that hints of the effects of climate change on animal populations, readers--but not Finn and Leo--will see Ooley happily sliding away down a hill. Other than brief mentions of Grandpa, no adults clutter this tale of siblings who are resourceful, creative, and kind. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10.5-by-16-inch double-page spreads viewed at actual size.) Gentle, humorous, and fun. (Picture book. 4-8)

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