Bruce Goes Outside

I was immediately drawn to the cover of this book with its bright colours and clear images of two likeable characters facing each other nose to beak. In the background distinctive flowers and interesting insects are a taste of the detailed illustrations that enrich this story.

Kathryn Van Beek introduced us to Bruce in “Bruce finds a home” and this sequel is sure to follow its success.

Bruce the cat would love to go outside but Mum warns of the danger lurking over the fence in the form of Barry Hogan, courgette lover, cat hater. Finally Kate convinces Mum to let Bruce out to explore. Bruce was enjoying the sights and delights of the garden when he encounters a protective mother bird and then things take a dangerous turn.

Written in a rhyming pattern this story introduces wonderful vocabulary with sensational verbs “she dove and drove and swooped and squawked, she soared and roared and flapped and stalked” catchy adjectives “crunchy scrunchy dirt to dig” and alliteration “furry feline foes”.

This book is sure to delight readers and listeners, my grandchildren certainly loved the rhythm and the illustrations as well as the humour especially when the table is turned on old Barry Hogan.

Title: Bruce Goes Outside

Author: Kathryn Van Beek

Publisher: Mary Egan Publishing

ISBN: 978-0-473-52138-7

RRP: $20

Format: Hardback

Date of Publication: August 2020

Ages: 4- 7

Reviewer: Elaine Wills, Library manager, Enner Glynn School, Nelson

How are you recommending this book? Highly recommended

What’s the book’s opening sentence? The sky was lightest, brightest blue, the sun was high, the sparrows flew.

You can buy this book here