Mortimer's Picnic

by Nick Ward, Nick Ward (Illustrator)

Overview

Mortimer is so excited to have a picnic with his friend, Oggy. But when Oggy sends a letter saying he’s sick, Mortimer decides to bring the picnic to Oggy and take care of him instead. On the way, Mortimer has to get past a few big obstacles, including a crocodile, a wolf, and a troll! But Mortimer is willing to do everything it takes to get to Oggy, even if it means giving up all his picnic treats. Kids will love this uplifting book about true friendship, looking after others, and facing one’s fears.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781499489712
Publisher:	Rosen Publishing Group, Incorporated, The
Publication date:	12/30/2021
Pages:	32
Product dimensions:	9.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.30(d)
Age Range:	4 - 8 Years

Editorial Reviews

— NetGalley — "The author used bolded text to draw attention to different phrases and words throughout the text. This addition will prompt caregivers and teachers to have the children join in on the story as well as build print awareness, as well as make this a good choice for storytimes in larger groups. Bright, vibrant illustrations with several pages using comic panel style illustrations will engage readers. The sequencing of the story is enhanced by the call back to familiar folktale and fairytale foes, and provides an easy segue for extension activities to build reading comprehension as well as an avenue to scale up for older readers. The natural back and forth flow of the text will keep readers guessing and engaged and lastly, giggling to see all of Mortimer's pursuers receive their comeuppance". — NetGalley — "I love the illustrations. They remind me so much of Alice in Wonderland and some animation movies. Kudos to the artist..."

From the Publisher

2021-12-16
Mortimer the rabbit sets out to help a friend in need but soon needs some help himself.

When his best pal, Oggy, falls sick, their picnic plans are dashed, so Mortimer decides to take the nosh he prepared to Oggy’s house and show him some TLC. Armed with his picnic basket, medicine, a get-well-soon card, and a storybook, he sets off along a winding country lane, but trouble awaits. First, it begins to rain, and a strong wind hauls Mortimer away into a river. Then, a crocodile, a wolf, and a troll force him to surrender the yummy items in his picnic basket in exchange for safe passage. But the bullies aren’t satisfied—they want to eat Mortimer too; so, when he flees, they give chase. All hope seems lost until a brilliant deus ex machina finds Mortimer saved just in the nick of time. Ultimately, it is Oggy—who is feeling quite better as the story closes—who ends up taking care of the cold and shivering Mortimer, because “that's what best friends are for!” The text is lively, set in varying font sizes for dramatic effect, with pleasingly familiar European fairy-tale elements. Young readers will be thrilled and surprised to discover the identity of Oggy. Ward’s illustrations, rendered in watercolors with a pencil line, are engaging. All of the characters—even a bumblebee in the background on one page—sport spot-on facial expressions.

Fun and sweet. A real picnic. (Picture book. 3-5)

Kirkus Reviews