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Beyond the Pond
Beyond the Pond
Reviewed by: Patricia Temple - Long Island Community Library, Long Island, Southern Maine Library District
Review Date: January 12, 2016
Review
This beautifully illustrated picture book follows young Ernest D. and his dog as they explore the bottomless pond behind their small, ordinary house. Ernest D. does all his prep work then dives in, head first, to see where his exploration will lead. Ernest D. and his dog's journey is a tribute to exercising the imagination, embracing new places and being open to new experiences. Ernest D's reaction on returning to his backyard pond is captured in an Oliver Wendell Holmes quote. "A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions". The author/ illustrator's digital artwork conveys the drama and arc of the story through the use of dark, light and unique perspective. Some unusual word choices are used that will expand young listener's vocabulary. This one is probably best shared in a small group or one on one, rather than a large lively story hour group.
Overall Book Score: very good
About the Book
Author:
Kuefler, Joseph
Illustrator: Kuefler, Joseph
Illustration Quality: very good
Publisher: Balzer+Bray/HarperCollins Publishers
Book Type: picture book fiction
Genre: adventure
Audience: preschool,grades k-3
Binding Type: trade edition
Binding Quality: fair
ISBN: 9780062364272
Price: 17.99