SOMEWHERE IN THE BAYOU

Norton Young Readers |  March 1, 2022

Description

Simple, subtle, and drolly funny, the Pumphrey brothers’ newest picture book is a layered exploration of the foolishness of making assumptions and the virtue of curiosity.

When four swamp creatures looking to cross a river come upon a log that would allow for precisely that, they can’t believe their luck. But a questionable tail adjacent to that log gives them second thoughts. Opossum believes it’s a sneaky tail and that they must pass it quietly. Squirrel thinks it’s a scary tail that can be cowed by intimidation. Rabbit decides it’s a mean tail that deserves a taste of its own medicine. As the critters exhaust approaches one by one, Mouse, the smallest of the lot, observes their folly and adjusts accordingly. But is it the mouse or the tail that will defy expectations?

Pairing their iconic illustration style with a wry irreverence, the Pumphrey brothers have crafted a delightful tale that reminds us to think before we act.

A 2023 Texas 2x2 List Selection

These beautifully illustrated, often humorous and instructive volumes are the best of recent books meant for children 2 years old to grade two.

—Texas Library Association

Best Picture Books 2022

Four swamp creatures, beset with curiosity, consider the best route around an enormous tail—possibly attached to a mouth with large teeth—in front of them. Eccentric charm, a bold graphic style, and a side-splitting punch line, the Pumphreys know how to tickle a child’s funny bone. A tale to reread and repeat.

—SLJ Best Books