The Three Vikings

by Adam Auerbach, Adam Auerbach (Illustrator)

Overview

Three Vikings set out on a daring quest in this thoughtful picture book that shines a light on teamwork and individuality by Ezra Jack Keats Honor-winning creator Adam Auerbach.

Three Vikings were dreaming of Valhalla: an enchanted land full of possibility where only the strongest and bravest can enter. The littlest Viking is neither the strongest nor the bravest, though he is the most creative. Can a gentle, musical Viking really survive the treacherous road to Valhalla?

This mythical tale celebrates teamwork, acceptance, the power of music, and the art of storytelling.

Christy Ottaviano Books

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781627796019
Publisher:	Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)
Publication date:	03/12/2019
Pages:	40
Product dimensions:	9.00(w) x 11.20(h) x 0.50(d)
Age Range:	4 - 8 Years

About the Author

ADAM AUERBACH is the creator of Edda: A Little Valkyrie's First Day of School, which was named an Ezra Jack Keats Honor Book. Adam's illustrations have appeared on book covers and in numerous print publications, including the New York Times and School Library Journal. He lives with his family in Brooklyn, New York.

Editorial Reviews

05/13/2019

Three Vikings embark on an epic quest to Valhalla, “the magical place where the strongest and bravest Vikings go.” In order to reach their destination, they have to travel “over the tallest mountains, across the widest sea, and through the darkest forest.” The smallest Viking is neither the bravest nor the strongest, but he has musical abilities and a tiny green lyre. When he tries to deter monsters with song along the way, though, the other two Vikings must intervene to save the group. Finally, after making it to Valhalla, the disheartenedsmallest one asks why he’s being welcomed. But uponentering the glittering world, the little guy discovers that its residents have “been waiting for just the right Viking to come along and fill their days with music and stories.”Auerbach(Monkey Brother)makes clever use of color in his bright, cartoon-style watercolors, showing how each character shines in scenes that match the character’s dominant shade of blue, green, or orange. Upon reaching Valhalla, a rainbow of colors helps to emphasize the story’s underlying message: everyone has something special to contribute. Ages 4–8. (Mar.)

Publishers Weekly

"Bold, humorous cartoon illustrations will hold the interest of group listeners. The message that the arts are as important as fighting is a positive one. Youngsters may want to learn more about Norse lore after reading this pleasant tale."—Kirkus Reviews

“Reminiscent of Tomi Ungerer's The Three Robbers (1961), this story keeps an upbeat tone. . . The idea that the arts are valuable comes through loud and clear.”—Booklist


“Precise and colorful illustrations complement the ordered structure of this tale that celebrates individuality and music. A pleasing tale of individuals who use their unique strengths in just the right way.”—School Library Journal

From the Publisher

03/01/2019

PreS-Gr 2—Three Vikings sit around a campfire with the littlest one playing music and "singing about Valhalla, the magical place where the strongest and bravest Vikings go." The male Viking has strength, and the female Viking has bravery. The little one has neither, but he does have confidence and musical ability. As they journey to Valhalla and encounter a troll, the little Viking tries a song, but the strongest Viking is able to vanquish the troll. When they encounter a kraken in the sea, the little Viking's lullaby fails and the brave Viking must dive deep to put the creature to sleep. The littlest Viking is certain he can help defeat a dragon by playing a musical tune, but the dragon likes the music so much, she wants to keep the instrument (a lyre) for herself. Luckily, the brave and strong Vikings come to the rescue and give up their shields so the dragon can use them as cymbals. As they finally arrive at Valhalla, and enter the grand hall, they receive a warm reception. Precise and colorful pen and ink illustrations drawn with a black outline complement the ordered structure of this tale that celebrates individuality and music. VERDICT A pleasing tale of individuals who use their unique strengths—might, bravery, and musical talent—in just the right way.—Ramarie Beaver, Plano Public Library System, TX

School Library Journal