Hogbert - by Briony May Smith (Hardcover)

About the Book

"When Mommy Boar sends her little snufflebugs to explore the forest for the first time, she cautions them to stick together. After all, the Big Bad Wolf could be near! But Hogbert's keen nose has other ideas, and after following a trail too far, he finds himself trembling alone in fear. What's that rustling in the leaves? Just a little red squirrel on her way to visit her sick granny! What's that growl coming through the trees? Just a snoring white doe who took a bite of an apple that made her sleepy! With each temporarily scary encounter, Hogbert finds that the world is a less frightening place, and that the same sense of smell that led him into trouble may just lead them all out of it again."--Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

Uh-oh! When a tasty trail lures Hogbert away from his family, he ends up all alone in the forest. Can he find his way home? Lush artwork, subtle fairy-tale references, and the kindness of new friends keep readers smiling.

When Mommy Boar sends her little snufflebugs to explore the forest for the first time, she cautions them to stick together. After all, the Big Bad Wolf could be near! But Hogbert's keen nose has other ideas, and after following a trail too far, he finds himself trembling alone in fear. What's that rustling in the leaves? Just a little red squirrel on her way to visit her sick granny! What's that growl coming through the trees? Just a snoring white doe who took a bite of an apple that made her sleepy! With each temporarily scary encounter, Hogbert finds that the world is a less frightening place, and that the same sense of smell that led him into trouble may just lead them all out of it again. Fans of Beatrix Potter and children taking their first steps toward independence will revel in the story's gentle suspense and warm, welcoming illustrations.

Review Quotes

Narration flows smoothly and features a variety of evocative words and phrases. . . . This low-key adventure is a pleasant diversion that effectively capitalizes on the appeal of timeless tales.
--Kirkus Reviews

Sharp-eyed readers will note that the much-feared wolf is actually a mother wolf and her child seeking their own reunion--a perspective shifting detail that, combined with the off-the charts baby animal cuteness and a reassuring message about trusting one's talents, makes for a snout-standing tale.
--Publishers Weekly

[A] heartwarming tale about friendship, family, and finding your way home. . . .
--Foreword Reviews

Smith's descriptive text and detailed illustrations immerse readers in the dense, expansive forest, which makes for a picturesque natural setting. Varied compositions throughout heighten the drama in this inventive adventure until Hogbert's nose expertly leads them to safety and reunion with their families...with quite a story to share.
--The Horn Book

In tender pencil-and-watercolor illustrations that beautifully render the deep forest setting, this story gives kids a safe way to explore the fear of being separated from a parent, while encouraging conversations about empathy and how perception can differ from reality. A heartwarming and thoughtful addition to any library serving young children.
--Booklist

About the Author

Briony May Smith grew up in Berkshire, England, playing with her younger brother and sister. She is the author-illustrator of A Practical Present for Philippa Pheasant, Margaret's Unicorn, and The Mermaid Moon and the illustrator of many books, including Stardust by Jeanne Willis, The Giant's Necklace by Michael Morpurgo, and Tooth Fairy in Training by Michelle Robinson. Her work is inspired by fairy tales, folklore, and life in the country. Briony May Smith lives in England.