When you learn that two of your favorite kidlit creatives have been teamed up on a picture book, you know it’s going to be good! Well, THE QUIET FOREST, written by Charlotte Offsay and illustrated by Abi Cushman, released this week and I was not disappointed. In fact, I know you’re going to love it as much as I do.
Title: THE QUIET FOREST
Written by: Charlotte Offsay
Illustrated by: Abi Cushman
Publisher: Simon and Schuster, March 2024
Suitable for ages: 3-8
Themes/Topics: Humor, friendship, empathy
Opening:
Deep in the woods,
A mouse wanders alone.
A mischievous mouse in a quiet,
Nothing to do forest.
Until…
Brief Synopsis: (from the publisher) A mischievous mouse wanders alone in a quiet, nothing-to-do forest. Until one small mishap snowballs into a chain of outrageous events, causing the whole forest full of animals to have a very loud day indeed. Can they find a way to bring calm and quiet back to their home?
Why I like this book (and you will, too): From the beginning to the end, this book is an example of what makes picture books so special with the illustrations and text combining to make a perfect book.
The Quiet Forest begs to be read aloud. The text sings on the pages with words like Splat! Grunt! Whoosh, Swish. The day begins peacefully but quickly becomes raucous with the mouse’s mischievous behavior setting off a chain of wild events creating chaos for the forest animals including a rattled rabbit, bothered beaver, miserable moose, and a drenched deer. The story builds until a hug causes a chain reaction in reverse with the animals comforting each other for a satisfying conclusion.
The artwork adds character and humor to the story. One can truly sympathize with the Miserable Moose and become worried when a bellowing bear becomes upset. On the edge of each spread there is a clue indicating the next animal. Look for the mouse on each page which show him to be a resourceful and clever character. Children will be laughing as they predict what happens next.
I predict this will become a classic picture book for library, class, and family story times.
For resources and activities, visit the websites of author Charlotte Offsay and illustrator Abi Cushman.
THE QUIET FOREST is recommended by Mr. Ernie.
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