I’m a big fan of Gianna Marino’s books. I especially enjoyed NIGHT ANIMALS and posted about it on Picturebook Builders. And now, here I am again singing the praises of Gianna’s clever story telling and glorious illustrations in her latest book, THE OUTSIDE.
THE OUTSIDE features a funny cast of prairie dogs. One member of the group, named Earl, does not like to go above ground. It’s dangerous there. And here is where Gianna Marino uses her brilliance as an illustrator; because there is, indeed, danger out there— lurking in the bushes (coyote), or flying overhead (hawk/bird of prey) unbeknownst to the prairie dogs as they frolic and play, but as the reader, we are in on the secret.
Earl’s friends try desperately to get him to appreciate the outside, but Earl prefers to stay in and dig. But, when a terrible rainstorm hits and the outside becomes dangerous after all, the prairie dogs flee to their tunnels, which have flooded! Luckily, Earl, in his quest to assure safety, has built a flood room and saves the day (and the darling prairie dogs’ lives). However, Earl is quite cold, and in order to warm him up and save his little prairie dog life, his friends rush him up into the sunlight and Earl learns to love THE OUTSIDE.
Gianna Marino uses dark ohhhh so well. Her sense of graphic design and unexpected perspectives keeps each page turn interesting and suspensful. I adore her gorgeous watercolor washes and her characters’ whimsical expressions. There’s also interesting back-matter about prairie dogs and their habitat which adds a fun and informative reality to Gianna Marino’s humorous tale.
This endearing picturebook will encourage young readers to face their fears and explore new adventures outside their comfort zone (or above ground). A friendship tale with humor, hugs, and adorable critters— of course it’s a winner!
THE OUTSIDE looks like a book that all kids. introvert as well as extroverts, will want to read over and over again. I know I want to read it as soon as I can. Congratulations!
Hi Joyce! I believe that part of a successful picturebook is that it is engaging and entertaining enough to come back to again and again. Lots of layers of lessons to take-away, without explaining what those lessons are. Gianna Marino has done it again! Thank you so much for visiting and taking the time to comment. We appreciate it!
This looks amazing! Checking to see if my library has a copy. If not, I’ll ask that they buy one!
That’s wonderful, Debra! Hope you love it!
Yu had me a Prairie Dog – what little cuties! And I love Earl – kids will relate!
I agree, Robin! However, I do think they’re related to chipmunks, which are not my favorite. Our plethora of ground squirrels seem to believe that my porch planters are their personal dwellings and that the bumps (which I paid extra for and carefully selected) on the decorative pumpkins are their appetizers.Argh! Anyhow, thank you for visiting today, I hope you enjoy the book!
This looks adorable! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Kathy!
I love prairie dogs and this story sounds so adorable! Thank you Jennifer.
Wonderful, Vijaya, I do think you’ll like the book! Thanks for visiting PBB today!
You had me with a prairie dog named “Earl”! Love it!
Hi Donna, the first page, when we meet “Earl” is very funny. Thank you for visiting our blog today and taking the time to comment!
I can think of at least 3 ways to utilize this book I lessons. Thanks for sharing!
That’s great to hear, Sherry! Thank you so much.
Ok, I GOTTA read this book!
❤️❤️❤️
Love the illustration style. Intrigued by the story. Will have to check this one out!
I hope you enjoy the book, Quinette! Thanks for visiting Picturebook Builders!
This book makes me smile. I’m rooting for Earl and his journey!