Over the River and Through the Wood: A Holiday Adventure
Words by Linda Ashman, Pictures by Kim Smith
This modern take on the “Over the River and Through the Wood” poem is so much fun. All four of “Grandma and Grandpa’s” adult children get invites to spend Thanksgiving together. The book follows each family as they make the journey, coming from very different places using cars, public transportation, and even a hot air balloon. But as each family unit gets closer to Grandma’s, they each run into a bit of trouble. A beautiful horse and sleigh arrives at just the right time to pick up each group though and bring them together for the holiday.
Rhyming books can be very hit or miss, but this one definitely works, especially if you’re singing it to the classic tune as you go. I can feel the excitement and also the very real mishaps that go along with having a family gathering. It feels cozy and fun and messy and real. And while nothing is mentioned in the new lyrics during the book, the illustrations do a beautiful job of representing families of many types, which I think is so wonderful to see, especially in a picture book. Great job on this one!