The Wilderness

In this gorgeously illustrated whimsical tale, a young boy who fears the outdoors becomes lost in the forest . . . and discovers not only his courage but a new friend, too.

The Vasylenko family are all adventurers who love wild places and wild things. All, that is, except young Oktober. He also dreams of adventure, but its the kind that takes place between the pages of a book, indoors, where its safe and warm. Unlike the rest of his family, he dreads venturing out where its cold, wet, and home to a creature he calls the Wilderness. His father assures him the wilderness isnt a monster, but out there, Oktober can only see slimy tails and sharp teeth and so many places for the terrible Wilderness to hide. One day on a hike, Oktober gets separated from his family, and because he doesnt believe hes brave enough to be an adventurer, hes certain his fate is sealed. But maybe getting lost is just what Oktober needs to find courage and a new perspective . . . and an unexpected friend. With wry humor and marvelously rich and clever illustrations that readers will be happy to get lost in, Steve McCarthys debut as author-illustrator will speak to even the most timid and bookish of adventurers.Details:

• 4-8 years
• 40 pages
• Dimensions: 10.2 x 0.4 x 12.1inches
• Author:Steve McCarthy
• Publisher/Date:Candlewick/October2023
• ISBN: 1536231371