Today's read is one for those campers out there, who love to discover the various sites of the US with their small adventurers. This read heads off to Nevada and the Valley of Fire. Yep, I've been there...long ago...and was curious to see what this read holds. Plus, I've learned that having books or in-travel projects, which relate to sites being visited, do make it more fun for the kids...or at least, give them something to do. Especially on car trips or long flights.
Anyway, I'm excited to see how today's read handles the topic and see if it's one to pack into the travel bag.
THE ADVENTURE OF MARVIN AND FRIENDS
AT THE VALLEY OF FIRE
by Rebecca Bodtke
Illustrated by Roka Roki
Blue Balloon Books
Picture Book
24 pages
ages 4 to 8
“You did it!” Marvin said. “You found the hidden treasure at Mouse’s Tank!”
The first installment of the series, this story is an exciting outdoor adventure set in a state park. Featuring the truck Marvin, his friend Vannigan, and their three doggie pals—Scout the Jack Russell and leader of the pack, Finn the Golden Retriever, and Finch the Brittany—this book teaches kids about the value of exploring nature and learning about their environment.
The group sets up camp and observes the impressive Arch Rock and the beautiful desert sunset. As the dogs venture off on their own to investigate Mouse’s Tank, Vannigan encourages them to keep an eye out for some amazing things. Finally, the gang celebrates as the dogs discover the hidden treasure of the valley—petroglyphs! Author Rebecca Bodtke’s engaging storytelling offers an accessible narrative that is sure to make any child look forward to their next trip outdoors.
MY TIDBITS
Camping takes on excitement and a few surprises as young readers discover the Valley of Fire along with a fun bunch of dogs.
A pick-up, Marvin, and a camping van, Vannigan, head out with three dog friends to explore the Valley of Fire on a camping trip. The dogs enjoy all sorts of moments, which camping involves, and also discover several sites at the park. The adventure takes an exciting twist, when the dogs learn the background behind Mouse's Tank Trail and decide to stop the band of bandits. Instead, they discover something else.
This is a read for those who are familiar with the Valley of Fire in Nevada or would like to learn a tiny-bit about it, especially if it might involve a camping trip to the area. An enjoyable cast of characterssets the stage for this enjoyable read. Campers (or want-to-bes) will connect with the dogs as they explore the campsite, cook outdoors, and more. As they head out for hiking and exploration, a few sites from the area are depicted in the illustrations and included in the adventure. None of these hit with heavy facts, but rather come across with a general impression to spark curiosity and demonstrate the interesting possibilities the park has to offer.
While readers learn a little bit about the area, the story leans more toward the fun and friendship of the three dogs. Still, the sights and atmosphere of the Valley of Fire come across nicely and will have some readers wanting to visit the park themselves. I did miss the swirl of colors found in some of the rock formations in the illustrations, but there are other aspects which are brought across well. A little more information about the park at the end of the read would also have been a nice addition, but then, this read centers more on the adorable dogs and their escapades. Little adventures will find it inspiring.
While this makes a nice read-aloud thanks to the flowing text, young readers, who are surer of their words, can also pick up this one on their own. The text is short with a few more difficult vocabulary here and there to expand word knowledge. So, there is much to enjoy in these pages.
1 comment:
I've never been to the Valley of Fire - I bet it's gorgeous.
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