Omar on Board Book

An Ontario Library Association Best Bets 2005

Omar loves the pond in winter. On the ice nobody can skate faster, leap higher, or twirl quite as well as Omar can. Now it's summer, and with the new goggles that his teacher Ms. Fudge gave him, Omar sets out with his classmates for a day of fun on the water. But Omar quickly realizes that he isn't nearly as talented as he thought. When the others float, he sinks. When the others do the backstroke, Omar just gets in the way. Worst of all, when his time comes to jump off the diving board, Omar loses his nerve and has to climb back down the ladder. Discouraged, Omar sits on the sidelines and watches the fun, wishing with all his might for the pond to freeze.

But when a friend needs help, Omar leaps into the breach. After a day of doing everything wrong, now is the time to do something right. Omar is about to discover a new talent after all.

Sometimes it's not about being the best; sometimes it's about thinking of someone else. Young readers will sympathize with the portly bear who tries so valiantly to join in. And they will applaud when Omar finally overcomes his fears and creates his own fun. A spirited sequel to the acclaimed Omar on Ice.

Robyn Gioia - Children's Literature

Omar the bear is full of excitement at the last day of school party. Everyone is promoted, and Ms. Fudge presents the perfect gifts. Omar's friend Elsie is thrilled with the balloons she receives, Bart gets a red striped ball, and Omar delights in the pink hues seen through his new goggles. The whistle blows and the young bears trot down to the pond for a swim, only Omar discovers he can't float like everyone. He sinks. And when he tries to jump from the high dive, he can only look down. "He stood there, high up and all alone. The wind rustled around him. Everyone seemed so far away." But when Elsie's balloons drift off in the wind, Omar takes off to retrieve his friend's beloved present. This time, fear is not a factor. In Omar we see a delightful character full of angst and pride as he encounters the day's unexpected events. Softly created watercolors will capture the attention of even the youngest reader. Illustrations of joy and dismay are communicated through lovable creatures and adorable expressions. Each picture in the story works beautifully with the narrative, providing a visual treat to all. 2005, Fitzhenry & Whiteside, Ages 6 to 8.