Otis

Otis is a pig unlike other pigs. He doesn't like mud. He avoids muddy play, does his best to remain spotless. As seen on the cover, he even takes baths. but has a lot of trouble making friends. He's just not like them. What can Otis do? One day, Otis discovers somebody new, somebody who isn't a pig at all. This individual doesn't like mud either, but he does have a muddy problem. Otis helps him out and discovers a new friend in the process! Those of us who find ourselves different from others in one or more ways can identify with Otis. He gives us hope that we can find others to relate to. The illustrations are soft and charming. The text seems like it would work well for read-aloud, or for young readers with a bit more advanced reading knowledge.

Poor Otis has the same problem many children have...fitting in. While the rest of the pigs cavort in the mud, Otis prefers to stay nice and clean...which doesn't win him many friends. Until he meets Little Frog, who is the perfect friend for Otis. Not only did I find this an enchanting tale, but Bynum's rich watercolors and attention to detail (a copy of This Old Sty is among the clutter in the pig's livingroom)grabs every child's imagination and heart. And Otis is a character that you will naturally fall in love with. He's so adorable! Great for the preschool set.