Otis and the Scarecrow by Loren Long
Published by Philomel on August 28, 2014
Genres: Children's, Picture book
Pages: 40
Format: Hardcover
Source: Philomel
Buy the Book • Goodreads

On the farm where Otis the tractor lives, the farmer has introduced someone new—a scarecrow to shoo away the pesky crows. But when Otis and the animals greet the scarecrow with friendly smiles, the scarecrow’s frown never leaves his face. So everyone leaves him alone.

Then one day, when a cold autumn rain sets in, Otis and the animals snuggle close and play Otis’s favorite game: the quiet game. Otis knows the puppy and ducks can’t sit still for long, and soon the farm friends begin to giggle and squirm, feeling warmed by one another’s friendship . . . but on this day, Otis can't seem to take his eyes off the lonely figure in the cornfield.
A deeply resonant book about subtle acts of compassion and standing up for others, featuring everyone's favorite tractor, Otis.

I have been a fan of the Otis books since the very first picture book in this series came out. Who wouldn’t fall in love with a tender hearted old fashioned red tractor that makes the best of friends with everyone on his farm?

Fall has set in, the leaves are changing, the pumpkins are ready to harvest and there is a chill in the air. Along comes a new addition to the hill, a scarecrow! At first everyone is scared of this sour faced, stern statue who stands watch each and every day alone. But soon, the crows pick at him and all turn away to ignore him. Otis, friendly as he is, can  not understand why Mr. Scarecrow is so serious! There are no smiles, no greetings, no hellos. Can anyone befriend him?

With beautiful illustrations  and a message that will bring a smile, we give Otis and the Scarecrow 5 stars. Loren Long teaches that even the unfriendliest of neighbors need someone to stand by them. Otis has won us over once again!

 

Praise for the Book

* “Long’s gouache and pencil artwork is stunning. . . the satisfying conclusion that speaks of a place for everyone is sure to ring true to children.” —School Library Journal on Otis, starred review

* “The illustrations wonderfully enhance the story, from the joy of the animals prancing around the Christmas tree to Otis’ expressive responses to the events around him.” —Booklist on An Otis Christmas, starred review

“Hearkens to the golden age of picture books, with a style and tone that recall the work of Virginia Lee Burton and Munro Leaf.” —Booklist on Otis and the Tornado

“Fans of Otis will not be disappointed with the satisfying ending that results in a creative solution and a most happy reunion. Seek this out—“game on!” —Kirkus Reviews on Otis and the Puppy

About the Author

Loren Long has putt puff puttedy chuffed his way all over the bestseller lists with such titles as Otis, Otis and the Tornado, Otis and the Puppy, An Otis Christmas, Drummer Boy, Toy Boat by Randall de Sève, and Mr. Peabody’s Apples by Madonna. He’s also had the opportunity to modernize the classic The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper and had the distinct honor of illustrating Of Thee I Sing by President Barack Obama. A graduate of the American Academy of Art in Chicago, Loren lives in Ohio with his wife, Tracy, and their two sons.

You can visit Loren Long at www.OtisTheTractor.com and www.LorenLong.com. Follow @lorenlong