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Library | Call Number | Status |
|---|---|---|
Searching... Salem Main Library | JP Kloepper | Searching... Unknown |
Searching... Salem Main Library | JP Kloepper | Searching... Unknown |
Searching... West Salem Branch Library | JP Kloepper | Searching... Unknown |
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Summary
Summary
What's so great about the 'great outdoors'? A grumpy urban kid begrudgingly accompanies her family on a summer camping trip, missing all the sublime sights right under her nose as she longs for the lights and stimulation of the city. But as she explores forests, lakes and mountains, and encounters incredible wildlife, she slowly comes to realise that the that the sky is its own majestic light show, and the symphony is all around. The Not-So Great Outdoors is a humorous and richly imagined reminder of the beauty and magic that can be found away from the city and our screens.
Author Notes
MADELINE KLOEPPER , a graduate of Emily Carr University of Art and Design, brings wise-beyond-her-years illustrations full of lushness and adventure in her debut picture book as both author and illustrator. Madeline grew up in the lower mainland of British Columbia amidst a sea of humans and spent a few years in Vancouver; she has since migrated northward to Prince George. Her work is influenced by childhood, nostalgia and the relationships we forge with nature, no doubt inspired by her love of exploring the Pacific Northwest. She is also the illustrator of Robert Heidbreder's Rooster Summer and M.H. Clark's Tiny, Perfect Things .
MADELINE KLOEPPER , a graduate of Emily Carr University of Art and Design, brings wise-beyond-her-years illustrations full of lushness and adventure in her debut picture book as both author and illustrator. Madeline grew up in the lower mainland of British Columbia amidst a sea of humans and spent a few years in Vancouver; she has since migrated northward to Prince George. Her work is influenced by childhood, nostalgia and the relationships we forge with nature, no doubt inspired by her love of exploring the Pacific Northwest. She is also the illustrator of Robert Heidbreder's Rooster Summer and M.H. Clark's Tiny, Perfect Things .
Reviews (2)
School Library Journal Review
Gr 1--3--On a camping trip with her family, a confirmed city girl wonders why her parents are so keen to go experience "the great outdoors." There is nothing good out there--no power, no buildings, and no playgrounds. There are no pretty lights to look at or buildings for shelter. On the trip, they see caves, bears, and songbirds, but it is not as appealing as the city. However, catching a fish is awesome, and the animals do clever things to get what they need from the environment. The sunsets are beautiful and eating food they catch and cook over an open fire is delicious. The night sky is so amazing that the girl does not mind missing her favorite show. This story quaintly shows how a young girl goes from an indifference to nature to appreciating it and capturing loads of photos to bring back to her urban home. The illustrations are intricate and beautifully done. This book will appeal to a niche group who appreciate detailed drawings to help tell the story. VERDICT A lovely addition, but one that will probably appeal more to the older range of students.--Nicole Detter-Smith, Homestead High School, IN
Kirkus Review
A school-age kid is grumpy about going on a family camping trip but eventually comes to appreciate what the outdoors has to offer.Standing on the street in a very cool town, with its artsy soap and pottery stands and street musician, our protagonist, arms folded, tells the other kids, "I have no idea why we have to venture into the great outdoors' this summer," but off they go, leaving the city behind and driving straight into the mountains. "It's not like there's anything out here," the narrator continues, as the landscape turns thick with wildlife. "There's no electricity," is the next complaint, as the protagonist sits glumly, ignoring the campfire. The narrator misses the "city lights" even as mom points up at the aurora borealis. The others seem oblivious to this disgruntlement as they frolic, take pictures, and explore. After they spot bears (from the safety of the car), the narrator comes around. "Well, I guess I could get by with songbirds instead of street performers." Fishing, biking, and incredible views are none too shabby either. The mixed-media illustrations use short strokes and deep color to render the fullness of the land with a calm energy. The narrator has brown skin and straight, black hair, as do baby sib and mom; dad presents white.Watching this protagonist's reluctant change of heart won't get old; neither will the beckoning scenes of the great outdoors. (Picture book. 5-9) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.