Hattie and Hudson

Outdoor enthusiasts will celebrate this brave young heroine as she schools the town on acceptance.

The story’s message—don’t judge by appearances—is gently delivered in a tale just right for one-on-one sharing.

K-Gr 3--Hattie McFadden is a young explorer who loves canoeing on a nearby lake. As she contentedly paddles along, she hums a happy tune. The girl's cheerful singing intrigues a lonely green monster, who ventures out from his deep and dark watery lair. Curious, the gentle giant gazes into Hattie's eyes and joins in the song, "harmonizing with a low rumble." While the other townspeople react with fear and loathing, Hattie befriends the peaceful creature and names him Hudson. When a town hall meeting is organized to get rid of "the Deadly Beast," Hattie is distressed and sagely says, "If only they knew him." Together, Hattie and Hudson devise a plan to dispel misconceptions. Van Dusen's stunning illustrations offer unique perspectives, from an aerial view of Hattie first making eye contact with two glowing eyes beneath the silvery water to a vertical spread of Hudson triumphantly emerging in the sunlight with Hattie perched on his head. VERDICT This eloquent, evocative book about compassion is perfect for sparking discussions on prejudice. A sensational choice for a seasonal storytime.--Linda Ludke, London Public Library, Ont.

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"Van Dusen's ('The Circus Ship') sleekly painted lake is a midsummer day's dream: saturated greens, glimmering blue water and little red boats you're dying to take for a spin." —The New York Times Book Review 

"Chris Van Dusen brings his colorful, perspective-bending artwork to this satisfying new story about acceptance, friendship, and sticking up for those who are different." —A Mighty Girl (blog)

"The evocative illustrations, and timeless themes of acceptance, friendship and being an upstander will resonate with young readers, and provide a good jumping off point for conversations about courage and kindness." —Baltimore Sun

"Told through Chris Van Dusen's signature lively illustrations, Hattie & Hudson is a delightful summer read full of wonder and heart." —Bill Grace, Buttonwood Books & Toys, Cohasset, Mass.