Captain Olly tries to sail to the USA in a dinghy but finds the journey is more dangerous than he anticipated.

When Captain Olly finds a rubber dinghy on the seashore, he is determined to sail to the USA. As his doggy friends watch from the shore, too afraid to join him, brave Captain Olly embarks on this hazardous journey alone. A gull warns him that he has made a big mistake, and Olly soon discovers that the gull was right. This humorous tale of courage and perseverance in the face of adversity is written in an engaging rhyming style with colorful ink and watercolor illustrations.

“The bright, expressive illustrations are delightful, each spread alternating between classic vignettes and full-page scenes that are immersive and dramatic and often full of interesting details. The pen-and-ink style makes for approachable and easily decoded pictures, befitting the simple story.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Rhyming couplets roll along with the waves in a lively tale that promotes creative play, outdoor activities, and plenty of imagination. Lighthearted fun follows Olly as he perseveres in his little red raft.” —Foreword Reviews

Robert Gernhardt (1937-2006) was born in Tallinn, Estonia and studied painting and German in Stuttgart and Berlin. As an author and illustrator, he was one of the cofounders of the New Frankfurt School and became one of the best-known satirists in Germany, winning awards like the Erich Kästner Prize.

Philip Waechter has worked as a freelance illustrator and has a large number of picture books by well known authors, such as Kirsten Boie, to his name. In 2001, his work earned him a place in the International Youth Library’s “White Ravens” Catalogue.

Age Range: 5-8

RRP: HC: $9.95

ISBN: 978-1-76036-127-3

JUVENILE FICTION / Animals / Dogs
JUVENILE FICTION / Humorous Stories