It's nice to have your friends move in, but. . . . A sweet, wry tale of cooperation and camaraderie, told with pastoral artwork by Inga Moore.One little pig has made a little den for herself in the woods, and another little pig has a small hut next door. One morning they return from a walk to find that their big friend Bear has moved into the den and an even larger Moose into the hut. CRASH! With both homes collapsed, they're all in a pickle--but what if they find a way to build a house in the woods that all four of them can share? With lush, whimsically detailed illustrations and a cast of endearing, industrious (and most accommodating!) characters, Inga Moore constructs an inviting story of friendship that kids will be happy to visit awhile.
Moore's simple text is sprightly and inviting, with exclamations and asides that make the audience feel present and included. Her elegant yet cozily rustic illustrations are particularly effective, with delicate shading and crosshatching adding rich but subtle textures. The kind of kids who love to make forts and playhouses in the backyard or living room will find this especially appealing. This would work equally well for bedtime reading or group storytime; either way, youngsters (and their adults) will enjoy spending some time in this pleasant woodsy world.
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)
Moore's artwork for this appealing book has a timeless quality. Her pictures depict an inviting woodland setting and express the personalities of a group of animal friends who become an unlikely family. One can almost get lost in the full-bleed pages and spreads, many of which are wordless, evoking the peacefulness of the forest and the warmth of the animals’ relationship. A charming tale that underscores the rewards of cooperation.
—Publishers Weekly
