Tiny Hiker - by Natasha Zimmers (Hardcover)

About the Book

In this rhyming picture book, the tiny hiker is excited for her first backpacking trip to camp on the beach, but when the trail is longer, steeper and much more difficult than she expected, she has to find a way to keep going--even when she wants to give up.

Book Synopsis

★ "Offers a realistic, joyful depiction of a young adventurer and reflects the author's experience as an outdoor educator. A standout debut that will inspire young readers to explore the outdoors." -- School Library Journal (SLJ), starred review

The tiny hiker finishes loading up her pack and excitedly gets on the trail, leading her family through the ancient trees toward their beach campsite.

At first it's fun to explore--she finds a hollow log, wriggles under a fallen tree, and spots a slimy slug! But then the trail starts getting steeper, and when her legs get tired, she trips on a root and takes a hard fall. Now her knee hurts, her elbows hurt...everything hurts! She just wants to give up.

But after a little break, a tasty snack and an exciting glimpse of the beach, the tiny hiker feels better and decides she will make it. With one final scamper over some giant beach logs, she finds the beach. Time to play! And at the end of the long day, after sitting by the campfire, the tiny hiker gets cozy in her sleeping bag and falls fast asleep.

Review Quotes

"A wonderful read-aloud, with rhythmic text punctuated by exclamations from 'the tiny hiker.' You will have fun with this book."

-- "Canadian Teacher Magazine"

"Repetitive, rhythmic phrasing gives the book a poetic feel, the steady pacing mirroring the rhythm of walking. The positive tone creates a can-do attitude where kids feel the joy of doing something difficult. A wonderful story time read-aloud or a book for families to share before heading out on a hiking or camping trip."

-- "Booklist"

★ "MacGibbon's detailed illustrations bring the story's emotions and the surrounding nature to life, with expressive speech bubbles conveying her thoughts and delight. A charming celebration of nature and curiosity, this book offers a realistic, joyful depiction of a young adventurer and reflects the author's experience as an outdoor educator. A standout debut that will inspire young readers to explore the outdoors."

-- "School Library Journal (SLJ), starred review"

About the Author

Natasha Zimmers loves being outside in all seasons and weather, but her favorite place to be is on a wild West Coast beach, backpacking with her own not-so-tiny hikers. She teaches outdoor education and loves seeing the world through the eyes of her students as they discover the wonders of nature. She lives in Western Washington.

Jaimie MacGibbon is a children's book illustrator living in the mountains of British Columbia, Canada. She has always loved stories and storytelling. When she isn't doing so with art and books, Jaimie enjoys telling stories onstage, participating in community theater. Jaimie loves using expressive line work, playing with light and drawing characters that are full of life.