Elliot Digs for Treasure FROM THE CRITICS
Children's Literature
When Elliot Moose finds a map with a mysterious X on it, he knows that means treasure. As he begins to dig, his friends Socks, Beaverton and Angel eagerly join him. Dreaming of riches, they dig and dig until soon the hole is over their heads. Puzzled over no sign of treasure, the friends discover that the map is not a treasure map after all, but a plan of where their friend Lionel wants to plant his tree. Now they are stuck in the hole with no way to escape. They all have to work together to discover a way out of their dilemma. The author cleverly uses the favorite childhood pastime of digging for treasure to create an appealing story of cooperation. The characters are drawn as plush toys from the author's own plush toy company. Her favorite creation is the moose named Elliot who inspired this "Elliot Moose" series. 2001, Kids Can Press, $12.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer:Cheryl Peterson
School Library Journal
PreS-Gr 1-Intrigued by what he believes to be a treasure map, Elliot Moose and his stuffed-animal friends dig a very deep hole. All are discouraged when they discover that the map simply shows the location where his friend Lionel plans to plant a new tree. Disappointed, the friends give up digging only to realize that they are trapped in the hole, and it's only through Beaverton's cleverness and creativity that they are able to get out. Beck's choice of language will appeal to readers as they enjoy the pleasing phrases ("When Angel clambered up, the fuzzy tower began to sway. Elliot wibbled, Beaverton wobbled and they all came tumbling down"). Pencil-crayon illustrations are softly textured and resemble a cross between the art in Paulette Bourgeois's "Franklin" series (Kids Can) and Marc Brown's "Arthur" books (Little, Brown). Each spread is framed by a colorful, thin border and consists of a large picture on one side, with nicely spaced text opposite. The moose and his friends' facial expressions help readers experience the emotions of the story. Elliot fans who dig into this newest adventure will discover that even ordinary toys can be treasures.-Cathie E. Bashaw, Somers Library, NY Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.