A House in the Woods

PreS-Gr 1—When Moose and Bear accidentally destroy their pig friends' modest digs, the foursome decide to bring in the local beaver construction crew to build a house they can all share. For the price of peanut-butter sandwiches, the crew agrees to the work. The cozy cottage is quickly built and furnished by the friends, who do indeed pay in sandwiches. After a supper and evening of storytelling, the four settle into their new home. The gentle arc of the story about a warm friendship is perfectly echoed by the large, detailed illustrations. The pencil, pastel, and wash art is full of autumn colors and delicate touches and details that bring the woods and the animals to life. Budding builders and tool fiends will enjoy the house assembly and the humorous elements within the illustrations. A comfortable story of friendship.—Marge Loch-Wouters, La Crosse Public Library, WI