Terrific

Author and illustrator Jon Agee's 2005 picture book is nicely adapted in this iconographic-animated version featuring narration by Kirby Heyborne. Grumpy old man Eugene—who sarcastically mutters about things being “terrific,” when in fact they are quite the opposite—wins a trip to Bermuda, but is the only one not rescued after the cruise ship sinks in a storm. Washed up on a small island populated by a parrot with a hurt wing, Eugene hates the sole food (pomegranates) and is frustrated trying to follow the super-smart parrot's detailed plans for building a boat (from centerboard to rudder and mast). Eventually, the sailboat is complete and the unlikely duo are rescued by fishermen…who have a history with the parrot. Bonus features include a read-along option and a companion music video from the Promise Makers. A fun tale presented with simple lines and colors, this is recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood)