TO THE BEACH

Spare language and charming art take a young boy on a wondrous, imaginary beach adventure. With snorkel and flippers in tow, the child exchanges his rainy weather for surf and sand, traveling by plane, boat, truck and camel through the desert to the salty sea. Each illustration encourages audience participation, cleverly revealing the subsequent method of transportation. Brevity answers the natural question when the boy returns: “Home. So where to next?” Against the plain dark background, the view outside his window depicts his future destination. Watercolor-and-ink double-page spreads utilize both warm and cool colors to enrich natural surroundings. Amusing details support minimal phrases; the friendly camel, with the yellow inner tube placed over his hump and toy shovel in mouth, assists with sandcastles and sunbathing. Thin lines capture the boy’s joy amidst the crashing waves, adding shade and immediacy to the quiet narrative. Docherty’s companion title, Little Boat (ISBN: 978-0-7636-4428-4), succeeds in similar fashion when the timid vessel declares his rightful independence against the imposing ocean. No sunscreen is needed to enjoy these selections. (Picture book. 3-6)