12/18/2023
A plucky shih tzu braves the wilds of Kenya in Loria’s debut, the first of her Harvey Travels series, inspired by her own endearing dog. City pup Harvey spends his time cuddled up under his sky-rise window napping—and dreaming of the big, beautiful world that exists just beyond his asphalt jungle. When he spots a jet cloud trail that spells out “Kenya” one day, Harvey’s curiosity is sparked. After all, “East Africa holds lands of beautiful surprise,” and Harvey can’t wait to experience all it has to offer firsthand. His adventure is equal parts educational and adorable, as he meets the local animals and explores Kenya’s breathtaking scenery.
Harvey’s wanderlust will foster a love for travel in even the youngest readers. Through his inquisitive eyes, a host of indigenous species come to life, such as the fleet-footed ostrich racing across the grassy plains and the grazing wildebeests, portrayed with a quiet sense of rippling power as they forage the savanna. Harvey’s open-eyed wonder is ably rendered by Luzina’s warmly hued illustrations, showcasing his perky charm against the coastal plains, and the subtle entertaining touches added throughout won’t go unnoticed. Harvey’s safari hat and snorkel gear add a sense of fun to his animal encounters, as does his cute interaction with a giraffe calf, who gifts him with kisses during their play.
Loria shares a wealth of educational facts about Kenya as well, such as the country’s proximity to the equator and a short snippet about the Masai warriors who call it home. Endangered species are briefly touched on, giving adult readers the chance to explore conservation with kids, and Harvey’s use of the Swahili greeting “Jambo” to the hippos he meets adds authenticity. Though Harvey wonders in the end if this has as all just been a dream, younger readers will be enthralled with his imaginative escapades and ready for his next adventure.
Takeaway: A perky pup explores the wonders of Kenya.
Comparable Titles: Ozi Okaro’s My Africa Vacation, Shel Haber’s The Animals’ Vacation.
Production grades Cover: A- Design and typography: A Illustrations: A Editing: B+ Marketing copy: A
