Out Into the Big Wide Lake

Readers learn about some of Kate’s challenges from the opening few pages and from the conversation that Kate’s mother has with her own mother when Grandma comes for a visit. Grandma takes Kate to live with her and Grandpa over the summer. This youngster is in for a special summer of learning to play with their dog, Parbuckle, being Grandpa’s “first mate”, helping her grandmother build a model boat, and actually learning to drive a real boat.

Kate settles into a routine of delivering food from her grandparents’ store with her grandpa. She becomes familiar with their friendly customers, with the exception of Walterm and it wasn’t just because his dock was surrounded by large rocks, but because Walter was grumpy and critical. When a crisis arises with her grandpa, quick-thinking Kate rises to the challenge and gains confidence in herself and her ability.

The author was motivated to write this meaningful and charming story by his own incredibly accomplished sister who has Down Syndrome. He is obviously proud of her and her achievements, and his tender respect shines through this charming tale.

Kate is a well-drawn character who not only learns to maneuver a boat but also situations unfamiliar to her. The refrain, often repeated during the story,

“Me?” says Kate
Why not?

being the answer, will have readers cheering on her expanded experiences and her efforts at self-reliance. She is a feisty, engaging heroine who learns to believe in herself. For many readers, especially the adults reading this book to young listeners, Out Into the Big Wide Lake will probably bring back good memories of times spent over their summers.

The artwork by Bisaillon is effectively rendered in mixed media. Expressive gentle drawings, rich in an abundance of nature, with colorfully depicted country and lake life are so fitting for this text. Although cartoon-like, they still manage to be bright and full of depth.

I do think that the age level of 4-8 recommended by the publisher is a bit too young and feel that, because of the length of Out Into the Big Wide Lake, it is more suitable for ages 6-10.