On the Other Side of the Forest - by Nadine Robert

About the Book

Book Synopsis

"Absorbing storytelling."--Publishers Weekly STARRED Review

"A riveting read."--Kirkus Reviews STARRED Review

What's on the other side of the forest? A young rabbit and his father are determined to find out in this modern picture book that "feels like a vintage gem" (New York Times), calling to mind the tender work of Beatrix Potter.

Some say that wolves, ogres, and giant badgers live in the forest beside Arthur's house. That's why no one ever goes in there, to see what's on the other side. But one day, Arthur's dad has an idea--a magnificent idea! Build a tower to look over the treetops! But a magnificent idea takes a lot of work. Will the villagers join and help them? And when the tower takes shape, what will they see on the other side?

This wonderful, heartwarming story reminiscent of classic children's books, is perfect for:

• Teaching kids about cooperation and teamwork--and how they help us achieve our dreams!
• A fun and creative Easter or Spring-themed gift for kids

Review Quotes

A 2022 USBBY OUTSTANDING INTERNATIONAL BOOK

"[On the Other Side of the Forest] feels like a vintage gem."
--New York Times

"Storytelling by Robert and restrained, classically drafted spreads by DuBois offer... suspense and drama along the way. An epigraph from artist Ai Weiwei underscores the value of smart collective action--a potentially dry theory that Robert and DuBois bring to life with absorbing storytelling."
--Publishers Weekly STARRED Review

"[The] family structure, the cooperative community, and the quality of the precisely inked and colored art combine for a riveting read."
--Kirkus Reviews STARRED Review

"The charming text and dreamy artwork... convey the quality of an old-fashioned folktale, while the intricate details recall the extraordinary structures built by the characters in Arthur Geisert's pig books."
--Booklist

"A heartwarming tale of a rabbit father and son and their decision to venture into the scary forest behind their house."
--Quill & Quire

"Are there really wolves and ogres and giant badgers in the forest? No one knows because no one ever goes into those dark and scary woods. You'll have to read this fanciful picture book if you want to know ... and pay special attention to Dubois's illustrations because they're an enormous part of the fun."
--Globe and Mail

"A must-have picture book! This endearing tale offers the opportunity to discuss what it means to help others and never give up. Recommended."
--School Library Connections

About the Author

NADINE ROBERT is a Canadian author and editor. She started her career designing video games before becoming a scriptwriter for animated films. She went on to set up the publishing houses Comme des géants and Le Lièvre de Mars. She holds degrees in education and literature and has translated several children's books. She lives in Montreal with her family.

GÉRARD DUBOIS was born in France, where he studied graphic design. His work has appeared in major North American and European publications, as well as in more than twenty illustrated books. His art has won awards in major contests for more than twenty-five years--he has received the Hamilton King Award and four Gold Medals from the Society of Illustrators, and his book Enfantillages won a BolognaRagazzi Award. In 2018, Canada Post issued a "Gérard DuBois" stamp as part of their Great Canadian Illustrators series. Gérard currently lives in Montréal, Canada.