Once There Was a Hoodie [Hardcover]

Sam McBratney (Author), Paul Hess (Illustrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 19, 2001 | Age Level: 3 and up

"Once there was a Hoodie who lived under a hill, and very fine Hoodie he was. But the Hoodie who lived under the hill wasn't truly happy, for there is only one thing that makes a Hoodie truly happy, and the Hoodie didn't have that." What could that thing be? In this delightful romp celebrating friendship, best-selling author Sam McBratney spins a tale of imagination and humor, as the Hoodie encounters a field of "white-and-woollies" (sheep), a herd of "black-and-whites" (cows), and a picnic of "tiny-two-legs" (children), who all run as fast as they can away from the funny-looking mushroom-eared Hoodie. Only at the end of the summer does the Hoodie find his true companion-another Hoodie, of course!

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

PreS-Gr 3-Just what is a Hoodie? It is a gentle creature, "as brightly colored as a berry" with ears that sprout like fungus, and a body as round as the hill under which he lives. This particular creature is in search of the "-one thing that makes a Hoodie truly happy." In his search, he encounters "white-and-woollies" (sheep), "black-and-whites" (cows), and many "tiny-two-legs" (children) kicking a "black and white roly-poly" (ball). Each potential group of friends he approaches, however, runs off in fear. Finally, he smells true Hoodie happiness-another Hoodie! The story rolls along smoothly, building empathy for the lonely, but likable protagonist. The colorful and creative choice of words adds whimsy to this engaging tale. However, when he finds true happiness, readers have little time to celebrate before the new friends begin a 100-year nap. This ending is a bit abrupt and puzzling since there is no earlier hint or explanation about this peculiar behavior. The strong visuals enliven the story. Hess has created a rhythmic flow in the round, rolling hills that echo the roly-poly Hoodie. Even the text occasionally curves over them. Despite the weak ending, the book is a delightful read-aloud. The bright illustrations are large and easily shared with a group.-Carolyn Janssen, Children's Learning Center of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH

Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Ages 4-8. Once there was a Hoodie who lacked one thing for complete happiness--a friend. The brightly colored, rotund creature, with mushroomlike ears, a goofy expression, and a high-rise hairdo, can't understand why everyone flees at his approach--sheep, cows, and children included. His search for a playmate is unsuccessful until what should appear on the horizon but another Hoodie, "bright as a berry." This quirky story derives some of its charm from comical, brightly colored art: the Hoodie's hill and cozy home beneath are fantastical playgrounds of skewed perspectives, impossible curves and angles, and vibrant natural life. Also delightful is the contrast between the droll narrative and the Hoodie's inner thoughts and humorous identifications (sheep are "wild-and-woollies"; people are "tiny-two-legs"). The hopeful Hoodie's well-meaning overtures and the characters' surprised expressions add both wit and poignancy. Should there ever be a doubt, this whimsical tale illustrates that there's a friend for everyone. Shelle Rosenfeld
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 3 and up
  
• Hardcover: 1 pages
• Publisher: Putnam Juvenile (February 19, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0399235817
• ISBN-13: 978-0399235818
• Product Dimensions: 10.6 x 8.4 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,538,214 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Sam McBratney is the author of the acclaimed picture book Guess How Much I Love You. Sam's distinctive storytelling voice builds on his rich storytelling tradition as a teacher, parent, and grandparent. He lives in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars Darling book is son's ALL-TIME favorite!, June 18, 2004

By 

Elysa Mac "Book-aholic Homeschool Mom" (America's Deep South) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Once There Was a Hoodie Hb (Picture Books) (Hardcover)

My son, who is now 7, discovered this book at the library when he was about 3. We checked it out so many times I lost count. My son never, EVER bored of this sweet story so one Christmas, he finally received it as a gift from a grandparent. 4 years after the initial discovery, even though he is now a "big boy", he still loves this beautiful book about a gentle giant who is only looking for some fun and love! Sam McBratney has a special gift for writing books that touch a young one's heart and Paul Hess's glowing illustrations are a brilliant match.