Additional information
by Darcy Pattison (Author), Joe Cepeda (Illustrator)
STARRED KIRKUS AND BCCB REVIEWS
"Wonderful . . . All geography lessons should be this much fun."--Kirkus Reviews (starred)
"A mini-quest complete with adventure, danger, and suspense. Youngsters will delight in the whimsy."--The Bulletin for the Center of Children's Books (starred)
Join Oliver K. Woodman on his unforgettable road trip across America in this beloved travel picture book that makes learning friendly letter writing for kids and U.S. geography an adventure! Perfect for fans of Flat Stanley.
When Uncle Ray carves a wooden man in South Carolina, he can't deliver Oliver to his friend in California himself. His creative solution? A sign reading: "Hi! I'm Oliver K. Woodman. Please help me get to California!"
Kind strangers give Oliver rides, and each sends postcards and letters for kids to read along with Uncle Ray, sharing their piece of Oliver's incredible journey. From truckers in Texas to families exploring Utah's desert, this children's travel picture book unfolds through beautifully crafted friendly letters that showcase different writing styles and voices.
A favorite 2nd grade read aloud and 3rd grade writing resource, this engaging story helps students:
- Master friendly letter writing through authentic mentor text examples
- Explore U.S. geography and maps as Oliver travels across America state to state
- Understand letter format-dates, greetings, and closings
Teachers love how this geography picture book naturally integrates language arts and social studies. Students can trace Oliver's route on the map, write letters to mail, or create postcards from different states. A natural fit for any writing curriculum in second grade or third grade classrooms, the authentic letter formats provide perfect models for teaching friendly letter writing conventions while keeping students engaged with the humor and heart of Oliver's adventure.
This charming tale proves that sometimes the best journeys are the ones that bring people together-one letter at a time.
BCCB Blue Ribbon Picture Book Awards
Starred BCCB review
Starred Kirkus Review
Irma S. and James H. Black Picture Book Award Honor Book.
Nutmeg Media Children's Picture Books on Video, June 2005.
ALA Notable Video.
Houghton Mifflin Journeys reading series.
