An Amazon Best Book of the Month
One fine morning, the people of Puddletrunk wake up to find their bridge has collapsed. They are not surprised. After all, termites have destroyed the last 200 or so bridges. Luckily, the people of Puddletrunk have a bridge-building expert in their town: the fabulous Mortimer Gulch, who will gladly rebuild their bridge for a pretty penny. But when a newcomer to Puddletrunk does not want to pay for the repairs, Mortimer is displeased. To make matters worse, this unusual foreigner has some innovative ideas that threaten to upend Mortimer Gulch’s entire business . . .
Here is a whimsical yet timely picture book allegory about what new people with new ideas can bring to communities.
Welcome to Puddletrunk, a charming town where bridges have a peculiar habit of collapsing about 200 times over, thanks to some industrious termites! But fear not, the resourceful residents have always relied on the expertise of Mortimer Gulch, the town's self-proclaimed bridge-building maestro. Mortimer, with his hefty price tag and traditional methods, has held the monopoly on bridge repair for quite some time. Enter a newcomer, a fresh face with innovative ideas that challenge the status quo. This "unusual foreigner," as some might call them, dares to question Mortimer's expensive solutions and proposes groundbreaking approaches to bridge construction. This sparks a delightful and thought-provoking conflict, threatening to disrupt Mortimer's entire business model and shaking up the comfortable routines of Puddletrunk. "New in Town," penned and illustrated by the award-winning Kevin Cornell, is more than just a whimsical children's book. It's a cleverly crafted allegory about embracing change, welcoming new perspectives, and the unexpected benefits that diversity can bring to a community. Cornell, known for his distinctive artistic style and engaging storytelling, delivers a heartwarming tale that resonates with both young readers and adults. This captivating picture book explores themes of community, innovation, and the importance of being open to new ideas. It encourages children to think critically about established norms and consider the value of different approaches. With its vibrant illustrations and relatable characters, "New in Town" sparks conversations about problem-solving, collaboration, and the power of fresh perspectives. Imagine the vibrant colors and expressive characters that Cornell is known for, bringing the town of Puddletrunk to life! Picture the comical scenarios and witty dialogue that make this book a joy to read aloud. "New in Town" is a perfect addition to any child's library, offering a delightful story with a lasting message about the importance of embracing new ideas and welcoming newcomers with open arms. It was also named an Amazon Best Book of the Month, further solidifying its place as a must-read for families. This enchanting hardcover edition, published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR) in 2021, is a treasure trove of delightful illustrations and a heartwarming narrative. With 40 pages of pure joy, Kevin Cornell weaves a story perfect for children learning about friendship, social skills and the importance of community. "New in Town" is not just a story; it's an experience that will leave readers pondering the power of innovation and the beauty of diverse perspectives. Discover the magic of Puddletrunk and the transformative power of a newcomer's fresh ideas! A fantastic addition to the Children's Books, Growing Up & Facts of Life, Friendship, Social Skills & School Life, Humor, Geography & Cultures, and Where We Live categories.