Review by Booklist Review
Not every book has the immediate, pick-me-up appeal of these volumes from the Ranger Rick Kids' Guide series. But then, not every book has a functioning, one-inch compass firmly embedded in its front cover and ready for a trial run. Divided into topics such as what to wear and where to go, each volume offers a useful introduction to its subject as well as practical advice for enjoying particular activities in the natural world. Paddling looks at the basics of canoeing as well as kayaking while briefly introducing stand-up paddleboarding as well. Besides the many small photos of kids, teens, and adults in action on the trail or on the water, digital illustrations include maps, diagrams, badges, and pictures of gear, supplies, and techniques. The National Wildlife Federation's cheerful cartoon spokes-raccoon, Ranger Rick, pops up from time to time, often alongside a photo, a sidebar, or a safety tip. With space divided pretty evenly between pictures and text, the coverage of topics is sometimes broad rather than deep, but these inviting books present many useful ideas as well as straightforward information, sound advice, and plenty of encouragement.--Carolyn Phelan Copyright 2018 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Beloved raccoon outdoorsman Ranger Rick introduces readers to small vessels and useful practices in this comprehensive guide to beginning adventures at sea (and on lakes and rivers). Beginning with that age-old query "Canoe or kayak?" the pages break down the benefits of each craft type and detail boat anatomy, from gunwale, yoke, and thwarts (canoes) to coaming, skeg, and lines (kayaks). Paddleboards receive brief coverage as well. Ensuing sections tackle gear (life jackets and proper fit, paddle considerations), skills (posture, stroke positions), and preparation (float plans for safe seafaring), all with attendant photographs that show life jacket-wearing children demonstrating technical prowess. Beyond the minutiae, high-level ideas such as judging water, caring for gear, and popular destinations in North America and around the world communicate the lure of self-reliance and adventure. A gear checklist, as well as practical and safety advice ("Practice capsizing"; "Don't forget the spare!"), mixes with outdoorsy design elements-such as a working compass in the cover and topographical backgrounds throughout-to delight and edify burgeoning captains. Also available: Ranger Rick Kids' Guide to Hiking. Ages 8-12. (June) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Review by Horn Book Review
These books present detailed guides for children who may have little experience with the titular outdoor recreations. Each uses a how-to format with step-by-step instructions; useful tips; and basic information related to sites, gear, food preparation, and activities. Illustrations, photos, and diagrams extend the readable texts on cleanly designed pages. Each book includes a working compass. Ind. [Review covers these titles: Kids' Guide to Fishing, Kids' Guide to Paddling, Kids' Guide to Hiking, and Kids' Guide to Camping.] (c) Copyright 2019. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
A guide to canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding for kids. The emphasis on fun in the subtitle says a lot about how useful this guide will be to newbie paddlers. The opening sets up a first-world versus third-world dichotomy that may seem patronizing. While the guide does solidly cover the parts and uses of each watercraft, the descriptions are wishy-washy, and the pictures don't always match. For example, "A kayak has a deck that covers the top of the boat" appears opposite a photo of two children on sit-on-top kayaks. Some advice offered here is solid, including using dry bags for gear, cleaning boats of all water plants, and wearing PFDs. Some is superficial: Several paddling strokes are mentioned, but only one is shown. And some is not good. A float plan is important, but taping it to a car window might lead to theft, and packing nose plugs in case of capsizing suggests that paddlers will have time to don them before tipping over. Companion guide Hiking is the stronger title that will provide readers with the knowledge they need to truly get out in the wild. Recommendations about clothing, shoes, and gear are balanced with reality: "If sneakers are all you've got, go for it." Other excellent advice includes not relying on a cellphone, drinking only water from home (nothing is said about found berries and plants), and using trail etiquette. Both books include ideas for places to hike and paddle, emphasizing state and national parks. Neither teaches kids anything about using the embedded compass ("Take a class!"), exposing it as a mere gimmick.Paddle past this one; hike instead. (table of contents, index) (Nonfiction. 8-12) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
