The Grand Expedition

By Emma Adbage
Translated by Annie Prime
Expected USA Publication: April 24, 2018 by Enchanted Lion Books

Why we chose this book:
As the weather warms up, I've been seeking out books that encourage engagement with nature. When I saw this upcoming release from Enchanted Lion Books, I contacted them for a review copy, and they obliged.

Mom's Review

Two siblings go on a backyard expedition.

The Grand Expedition was magnificent! Two young siblings decide to go on a backyard adventure, which their father accepts as completely normal. What a wonderful message to send: independence, curiosity, and exploration are expected. The children pack a bag and stay out in a tent until they are ready to come in, to poop, no less. A simple story line follows such a natural turn of events that readers can easily picture themselves in the characters' roles. After reading this, T is ready to explore the backyard and sleep out in a tent!

Son's Review
(age 3)
While reading: 
Mom, reading: "Iban takes a jumprope, too. 'In case we need a lasso.'"

Son: Why do they need a lasso?

Mom: That's a good question. Do you know what you use a lasso for? Cowboy Small uses one...

Son: To roundup.

Mom: Yes, to catch animals. Would you want to catch animals in your backyard?

Son: Yeah. A squirrel. A chipmunk.

Mom: What would you do with them?

Son: Throw them in a can. Then put little holes in the can so they can breathe. And then I would pour water in the holes so they can drink. And then I would put food in there so they can eat.

Mom: Would you want to sleep in a tent in your backyard?

Son: Yeah, but I would not do the bugs. I would just do the worms.

Mom: What would you take on your expedition?

Son: Bananas, water, and a tie...to tie with.

After reading:
Son: Is that their house?

Mom: Yeah. Can you find the tent in the picture?

Son: Yeah. There's a little map!

Mom: You're right! Did you like the book? What was your favorite part?

Son: I liked it. When she pooped.

Mom: Hey, would you take any of your explorer tools on your expedition?

Son: My bug catching net. My magnifying glasses, my compass, and my binoculars.

Mom: And what would you want to do on your expedition?

Son: Look at animal poop!
(T is 3. Poop is fascinating.)