Description

The adventure that proves strangers can be the kindest people of all.

Perfect for fans of Flat Stanley - Oliver K. Woodman takes kids on an unforgettable road trip across America, told through the letters and postcards of the kind strangers who help him along the way.

When Uncle Ray carves a wooden man but can't deliver him to California himself, he gives Oliver a simple sign: "Hi! I'm Oliver K. Woodman. Please help me get to California!" What follows is a journey from South Carolina to the Pacific Coast - truckers in Texas, families in Utah's red desert, and dozens of generous hearts in between - each sending postcards home that kids read along the way.

A story about adventure, trust, and the goodness of people. Kids ask for it again and again.

Also a classroom favorite for grades 2-3

Teachers love how naturally Oliver teaches what textbooks can't:

Friendly letter writing - real formats, real voices, perfect mentor text
U.S. geography - trace Oliver's route state by state on the map
Language arts + social studies in one irresistible read aloud

Awards & Recognition

★ Kirkus Reviews Starred Review - "Wonderful... All geography lessons should be this much fun."

★ Starred Review, The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books - "A mini-quest complete with adventure, danger, and suspense. Youngsters will delight in the whimsy."

BCCB Blue Ribbon Picture Book Award

Irma S. and James H. Black Award Honor Book

ALA Notable

Houghton Mifflin Journeys Reading Series