Fern and Otto: A Story about Two Best Friends is an adorable book about friendship. But it is also about one friend who probably needs some special glasses to see the adventures right in front of him! And, of course, there are adventures aplenty for Fern and Otto. Much of which are more exciting then first look would assume.
These two friends go out looking for an adventure that is more exciting than the one Fern is writing about in her book (enjoying themselves, each other and taking a nap). And what they get is for certain one grand adventure, only Otto is not aware of this at the time. How can watching a race with a tortoise and a hare be exciting? They did not have time to each porridge (and why did that house have so many bear things?) Kids will chuckle over how Fern, on the other hand, finds an adventure everyplace (and how those adventures will seem very familiar to the reader).
The illustrations (also by author Stephanie Graegin) are a hoot! The details are out of this world with their colors and details. Favorite and familiar fairy tale and folktale friends (looking at one tortoise, one hair and a race. Not to mention a gingerbread person, a wolf, and a gal in a red cape to name a few) can be seen on every page. There are clever puns, jokes and other hidden (and not so hidden) references, gags and fun is had on each page. While the story might be a bit “sweet” for some, it is still a good time. All ages can enjoy.