Carson Crosses Canada

Oh Canada!

I think the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa is one of the finest national history museums in the world. One can follow a single trail through the entire history of the country; it's sort of an historical version of a cross-country trip, just it's a cross-time trip. I thought of that as I read this book.  Here, we get an impressionistic view of Canada as we travel from Tofino in the west all the way to Newfoundland. Coast, Rockies, Saskatchewan, Montreal, PEI - we get a little taste of everywhere.

This is a kid's book, not a history or, really, a travelogue. It's not even explicit that we are following any particular route. We just start on one side, travel a long way, and end up on the other side. I guess parents could add whatever geography and history they might want to, as they read. But even just as a picture book, this is a treat. Carson and his mistress are cheerful and adventurous, and they make sure to have a good time as they travel and camp their way across the country. The vibe is upbeat and energetic. Carson is a peppy sort of dog and adds a good deal of personality to the trip.

The illustrations are lively watercolors, intended to capture the spirit of the trip rather than the actual realistic landscape. The pair travels light and their tale is comfy and fun. It may not be Rand-McNally, but it gets across the size and variety of the country. It's also just a good lady-and-dog story. So, I'm in and I could see a little reader or read-to getting a kick out Carson and his travel adventure. (And I like Squeaky Chicken.)

(Please note that I received a free advance will-self-destruct-in-x-days Adobe Digital copy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)

Oh, what a delightful picture book.  What a great way to show kids, and teach them, about what Canada is made up of, just in time for the 150 anniversary of the articles of confederation. (When Canada became independent.)

The story is basic.  Carson and his master have to travel from the west coast to the east coast by car.  At each stop along the way, we get to see the features that that area is famous for.  From the Rockies, to the prairies to Niagara Falls, to finally the islands of Prince Edward Island.  This is great for Canadian children, as I doubt there are many books like this.  And this is also good for American children to learn about all the provinces, and what is special about each one. 

Having driven across the United States, when I was in grade school, I would have loved to have something like this to compare the sights I saw with the sites that Carson and Annie, his owner saw as well.

Plus, Carson is cute, and silly.


Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.