From Publishers Weekly
Oliver, the cotton-tailed protagonist of this gentle-hearted picture book, is determined to win the annual strawberry-growing contest, despite teasing from the bigger bunnies and his own lack of experience. Self-assured and hard-working, Oliver is also quick-thinking: he outwits hungry birds, gophers and even a party of bears to save his crop and emerge victorious, harvesting the biggest, brightest berries around. Though occasionally didactic, Molk's (Beneath the Ghost Moon) text cheerily conveys several important messages, including the value of self-confidence and conviction, and the positive effects of a parent's love and encouragement. Sunny, airy watercolors provide an up-close look at a garden cycle; a few spreads offer cutaway views, showing life below ground as well as above. For all the roving bears and swooping birds, this countryside remains serene, subtly preparing the reader for the bedtime theme of the ending. Ages up to 8.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
PreSchool-Grade 2-Oliver is full of anticipation as he enters the annual strawberry contest, but the bigger rabbits tease him: "Little bunnies grow little berries." Fortunately, Oliver's mother encourages him to ignore their taunts and do the best that he can. While keeping an eye on the actions of the older gardeners, Oliver plants and cares for his seeds. Each time his strawberries are threatened by danger-birds, gophers, or large and hungry bears-the youngster comes up with a resourceful solution. When he is declared the winner, all of the participants celebrate together and the prize berries are made into an array of mouthwatering treats. After all of the excitement, Mother Bunny scoops up her son and whisks him off to bed. Molk's affectionate watercolor illustrations capture bunnies and bears with equal allure, and youngsters will instantly connect with Oliver's newfound competence. His mother's tender, unflagging encouragement makes this story perfect for pairing with Margaret Wise Brown's The Runaway Bunny (HarperCollins, 1942).
Lisa S. Murphy, formerly at Dauphin County Library System, Harrisburg, PACopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.