THE WILDERNESS, by Steve McCarthy, Candlewick, Oct. 3, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 4-8)
A young boy is forced to face his fear of the outdoors in The Wilderness, a delightful new picture book by Steve McCarthy.
The Vasylenko family are all adventurers who love wild places and wild things. All, that is, except young Oktober.
He also dreams of adventure, but it’s the kind that takes place between the pages of a book, indoors, where it’s safe and warm. Unlike the rest of his family, he dreads venturing out where it’s cold, wet, and home to a creature he calls the Wilderness. His father assures him the wilderness isn’t a monster, but out there, Oktober can only see slimy tails and sharp teeth and so many places for the terrible Wilderness to hide.
One day on a hike, Oktober gets separated from his family, and because he doesn’t believe he’s brave enough to be an adventurer, he’s certain his fate is sealed. But maybe getting lost is just what Oktober needs to find courage and a new perspective . . . and an unexpected friend. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick
It’s hard to know where to start when talking about The Wilderness. It’s just a fantastic book from beginning to end. The story in and of itself is spot-on. This metaphor for facing fears is something kids will immediately relate to. Steve McCarthy’s prose is conversational and his pacing perfect.
Equally enjoyable is McCarthy’s vibrant, stylized illustrations that immediately draw you in. His use of color and texture is fantastic, with his images always giving you just a little bit more to explore.
The Wilderness is an excellent picture book that kids and their grownups will love.
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