We Would Pretend

We Would Pretend is a captivating story of two friends lost in the world of make-believe and magic. The story transports readers into the imagery of magical kingdoms, space aliens and other bizarre creatures as readers watch the children facing their day outside in a real-life farmyard. When their father suggests they go outside to play, the children reluctantly step outside and decide they will play pretend. Starting with a treehouse that becomes their castle, they move along through scripted play to see a dungeon and a lookout and ultimately decide to follow a monster! They are led to a scarecrow in the garden that doubles as their imaginary gourd King. Using their magical powers, they fend off the gourd guards and ultimately topple the scarecrow over! Magical powers take the two characters into a space galaxy where they visit Mars and come across a Martian with a thousand slimy tentacles! The story has a comical ending, with the mischievous children having to face the father after he's witnessed the mess they have made.

An exciting and refreshing tale, We Would Pretend can be read aloud with exuberance and intrigue to keep little imaginations excited and encourage outdoor play. DuBois’ illustrations were incredible and transported me back to my own childhood books which I devoured.