The Wilderness by Steve McCarthy
Published by Candlewick Press on 10/3/23
ISBN: 1536231371
Genres: Juvenile Fiction / Action & Adventure / General
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

Oktober isn’t like the rest of his large family.  While they love the outdoors and the possibility of adventure, he prefers staying inside with his books where he is safe, dry, and warm.  His parents validate his feelings while gently encouraging him to be brave and face the unknown.  One day he gets lost in the wilderness.  This experience helps him overcome his fears as he changes his perspective and makes an unexpected friend.  The illustrations carry this picture book, though the voice used by the narrator who speaks directly to the reader, will also be appealing.  Children will like the somewhat cartoonish drawings and the colors evoke a strong feeling of fall that readers can almost feel.  This book would be great for children to check out and take home so they can take time to explore the beautiful and detailed illustrations.  Children will notice something different each time they hear this story.  

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library