The story is based loosely on an actual event in Maine. It's a good read by a GREAT illustrator. Also check out Chris VanDusen's Mr. Magee books and If I Built a Car. The guy is 1950s-vintage GREAT.
My first graders absolutely loved this book when the librarian read it to us the other day. We are big Chris VanD fans and this book had all the things we love- lots of action, great rhythm and rhyme, and bright, bold illustrations. It is now a favorite in our class library, even among those who usually never deign to read anything but chapter books.
The reviewer listed is way off. I've read hundreds of books to my children, and the artwork and rhyming story make it among the best -- truly. This book will be a classic.
My 2 year old loves this book. I bought the book as a recommendation from a employee at a book store. Even though my daughter does not understand the story, she loves looking at all the animals, which are very well illustrated. I can easily see this book growing with my child. The book is very easy to read out load and flows easily and the pictures are very vibrant. Highly suggest to anyone whose children loves animals