Up the Creek (Life in the Wild)
K-Gr 2–In this fourth title about a bear, moose, and beaver, the three critters decide to take a canoe trip. It seems like a good idea, but the friends quickly learn that failing to work together causes many problems; they disagree on small issues, such as who will steer the boat and how to do it correctly. Readers are introduced to nautical and canoeing terms such as “stern,” “portside,” “portage,” “current,” etc. Oldland's simple text and spare illustrations keep the story moving at a good pace. Throughout the tale, a charming red bird mimics the friends' actions. The story addresses friendship, animals, humor, the outdoors, and cooperation.–Janene Corbin, Rosebank Elementary School, Nashville, TNα(c) Copyright 2013.  Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc.  No redistribution permitted.