Gertie Braves the River by Louis Papadakis is a delightful tale about resilience, ingenuity, and perseverance. It follows Gertie, a giraffe with big dreams and a bigger heart, as she faces a daunting challenge, a river that blocks her path. With guidance from the wise Yank and inspiration from the lively monkeys, Gertie discovers the power of patience and creative problem-solving. The story is simple yet profound, delivering a lesson about overcoming obstacles with determination and a dash of ingenuity.

Papadakis’ writing is playful and rhythmic, which makes it a joy to read aloud. The repetition of key phrases like “With every try she sunk and slipped” reinforces Gertie’s struggle and persistence in a way that feels engaging, especially for young readers. The dialogue, like Yank’s advice to “Find STRENGTH within and clear your head,” is a gentle nudge for kids to trust themselves and remain calm in tough situations. The rhymes, though not overly complex, are charming and contribute to the story’s flow, giving it a sing-song quality that pairs beautifully with the vibrant illustrations.

Each page bursts with color and energy, capturing the spirit of the savanna and the determination in Gertie’s journey. The depiction of the monkeys, in particular, is fantastic, and they practically leap off the page with their exuberant antics. The book’s layout, with its varied font sizes and dynamic placement of text, adds to the visual interest and keeps the reader hooked. You can tell that Papadakis poured his artistic soul into this work.

What I loved most was the relatable and empowering message. Gertie’s story reminded me that even when we’re out of our depth like her facing that wide, deep river creativity and persistence can see us through. It’s not just a lesson for kids; it’s a reminder for adults too. When Gertie uses vines to build her raft, she shows how thinking outside the box can lead to incredible solutions. It’s a small but impactful moment that made me cheer for her triumph.

Gertie Braves the River is a gem for parents, teachers, and anyone looking to share a story about courage and cleverness with children. The story is as much a teaching tool as it is an entertaining adventure. It’s perfect for younger kids, especially those who are starting to face their own challenges, whether it’s learning to tie their shoes or making new friends. If you enjoy books that mix heart, humor, and life lessons, Gertie’s journey across the river is one you won’t want to miss.

Pages: 35 | ISBN 979-8-9921728-0-5