To the Beach!
Written by Linda Ashman, Illustrated by Nadine Bernard Westcott
Harcourt, 2005. 978-0152164904
Reviews
“A rip-roaring fun read-aloud.” —School Library Journal
“Westcott’s art ably captures the gathering frenzy, the unraveling of every nerve fiber. But Ashman’s verse is so light of foot, readers will laugh rather than wince.” —Kirkus
“As bright as a box of Popsicles, this sunny picture book puts a lighthearted spin on a day of family chaos. . . . A family outing gone hilariously awry.” —Booklist
“This gentle satire of an outing gone awry doesn’t forget to pack the laughs.” Family Fun Magazine
“The liveliness of the text is perfectly matched by Nadine Bernard Westcott’s vivacious artwork.” —Children’s BookPage
Where to Buy
About this Story
The car is packed.
We’re on our way.
We’re going to the beach today.
A block away, Kate starts to moan.
“We can’t leave Fido home alone!”
Turn around, find Fido fast.
He’s curled up, sleeping, in the grass.
The sun is bright. We squint our eyes.
“The beach umbrella!” Mama cries.
It’s with the tote bag, in the den.
Grab them both and start again.
I often find myself getting in the car and realizing I left my keys (sunglasses, purse, library books — you name it) in the house. And that’s just with one child. So I started wondering what it might be like to try to get somewhere when you have LOTS of kids.
I chose to make that “somewhere” the beach because — having spent most of my life in New Jersey and California — I’ve made many similar trips, lugging (and forgetting) all sorts of beach paraphernalia.
I am delighted that my editor for this book, Karrie Oswald, thought of Nadine Bernard Westcott for the illustrations. I can’t imagine a better choice. I love Nadine’s vibrant colors, the wonderful expressions and details she includes, and her fabulous sense of humor — be sure to keep an eye on that flamingo!