This was a sweet story if a little bit unusual. There is a scarecrow who scowls and never talks, and Otis sets an example by being nice to him anyway. I think the moral is sound but the scarecrow never does come around by the end of the book. That can be a talking point for you and your child - should we be nice even if someone is still acting grumpy? I would recommend this for fans of other Otis books. I was a little disappointed with this entry in this series. Otis has had many great stories that have completely put the "awwwwww" factor in most of them. In this one we find that the farmer has put up a new scarecrow. He is out in the field alone and he seems to prefer it that way. Otis is always trying to be a most hospitable host and make friends. This scarecrow won't budge. He looks rather sour and a little bit scary. He still pursues friendship anyway.This is the heart of all the Otis stories, he is such a wonderful little tractor, he wants to improve the lives of those around him. This is a story about pursuing friendship even when the odds seemed stacked up against you. I love this little tractor and his gumption make this story likeable.
It's all about friendship and community back on the farm with Otis.
—sandrad885
Cute book about friendship and being kind. Vivid illustrations.
—trish
Amazing fall read, great for storytime and Halloween
—Sam
it was bitter sweet...
—Lilly
Theme - friendship
—CanadianCap15
