Charlie's Boat

March 1, 2017
Everyone needs a little help from their friends.Charlie, Lulu, and Oliver (bunny, owl, and elephant, respectively) are young toddlerlike animals who love to play together. This third book of the series--with Oliver's Tree (2014) and Lulu's Party (2015)--finds the friends out fishing on the river. Poor Charlie is trying his best for a catch like the ones his friends effortlessly achieve but is only managing to land sticks. Glum at first, he is eventually inspired to switch gears and build a little boat out of some of his sticks. His friends follow suit, but unfortunately, in the race that follows, Charlie's boat comes in last, and he feels unsuccessful again. Is there any way he can cheer up? "I have a grand idea," offers Oliver. Minimal, simple text, just right for young readers and listeners, straightforwardly relates the story, while Chase's soft and appealing watercolor-and-ink illustrations, charming and succinct, capture the joys and frustrations of childhood with gentle humor and precision. Children will be drawn in by the bonhomie of the tale and the support and playfulness of the friends as values of creativity, resilience, patience, helpfulness, and compassion are emphasized without a trace of didacticism. A pleasant tale with realistic and lovable characters successfully delivers subtle lessons couched in warmth and playfulness. (Picture book. 3-6)

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June 1, 2017

Toddler-PreS-Charlie, a rabbit, tries to fish with his friends in this latest in the series. Lulu, an owlet, and Oliver, an elephant, are fishing successfully, while Charlie struggles to catch anything but sticks. After collecting a pile of sticks, he opts to make a small raft instead. Charlie's sweet friends join him in this new game and decide to have a boat race. Unfortunately, Charlie's oversize boat comes in last, and he's feeling down about being the worst at everything. But Oliver suddenly has an idea to highlight Charlie's talent and skills. This gentle tale of friendship will help children realize that they don't have to be perfect at everything and how important supportive friends can be. The pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations convey a softness that matches the text. VERDICT A great addition where the rest of the series is popular or for libraries that are looking to expand their friendship offerings.-Brooke Newberry, La Crosse Public Library, WI

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