Otis and the Kittens (Otis)

Otis the tractor turns first responder when a barn fire imperils a family of kittens. Racing into the barn with a "putt putt puttedy chuff," Otis saves the kittens in short order, but after he plunges through the burning floor, it's up to the barn animals to become the rescuers. Long creates a powerful sense of suspense and danger as charcoal smoke gathers in the sky and bright flames lick the beams of the barn as Otis goes to work, but bravery, loyalty, and gritty determination are the real stars of the story--traits that Otis and his animal friends have in ample supply. Ages 4-8. Agent: Steven Malk, Writers House. (Sept.)

PreS-Gr 2--Longtime fans and newbies alike will enjoy Otis the tractor's latest adventure. It's a particularly hot and dry summer in the valley. Otis and his animal friends work hard on the farm, but they still have time for their favorite game, tug-of-war. Their tugging skills save the day when Otis is trapped in a burning barn while rescuing a litter of helpless, big-eyed kittens. As always, perseverance, teamwork, and a heart of gold pay off for Otis and his friends. When read aloud, the text flows off the tongue with sounds ("putt puff putted chuff") and words ("The floor collapsed and Otis plunged to the darkness below") that extend the imagery created in the attractive gouache and pencil illustrations. The compositions make great use of perspective and motion and are expertly laid out to pull the eye to the important characters and action. The painterly images use a nostalgic palette of grays, creamy yellows, rusty oranges, and Otis's signature tractor red. There are wonderful textured details (scratchy straw, smooth chrome) that bring the story to life. VERDICT This first purchase is the perfect lapsit read-aloud, combining the ever-popular subjects of tractors, farm animals, and firefighters.--Amy Seto Forrester, Denver Public Library