In Charlie’s Boat, third in Kit Chase’s engaging series about playtime and friendship, Charlie, Oliver and Lulu enjoy a day of fishing at the water’s edge.
Oliver and Lulu are naturals, easily catching fish, while Charlie sadly hooks nothing but sticks. After sitting by the mound of sticks for a time, Charlie has an idea. He fashions a boat, and soon his friends make boats, too. When they stage a race, Charlie is sure he will win. Instead, Lulu’s vessel comes in first, Oliver’s edges in close behind, and Charlie’s boat is waylaid by rocks and he finishes dead last. Though he congratulates his friends, he feels glum. Maybe fishing and making boats are not for him.
Oliver comes up with a way to help Charlie. Working together, the three friends build a sturdy raft and all hop aboard. Charlie, to the delight of everyone, catches his very first fish.
Children will readily identify with Charlie in this gentle and charmingly illustrated tale of friendship. It seems even the worst day can be turned around with the help of good friends. Chase has created an endearing group of devoted pals who pitch in, relax and enjoy being together.
Charlie’s Boat, with its warm tale of friendship, lovable characters and sweet illustrations, has the easy cadence and charm of a classic.
Billie B. Little is the Founding Director of Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, a hands-on museum in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
