The Journey of Oliver K. Woodman

Based on the 2003 picture book—a Child Magazine Best Book of the Year honoree—written by Darcy Pattison and illustrated by Joe Cepeda, this iconographic animated program follows the state-hopping journey of Oliver K. Woodman (a wooden man also known as Mr. OK). Although Tameka wishes her South Carolina-dwelling Uncle Ray would come visit the family in California for camping and fishing fun, his work is keeping him too busy, so he sends Mr. OK cross-country instead, complete with a note requesting that those who pick up the “hitchhiker” send postcards informing Uncle Ray of Oliver's experiences. Kicking off his adventure by riding in the back of a truck with a bull, Mr. OK travels through Arkansas, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, and so on, transported by a variety of colorful characters, including movers, Miss Utah, and a trio of elderly sisters (who win $5,000 after taking Oliver to Reno and sharing afternoon tea with him every day). Eventually, Mr. OK makes his way to Tameka, and the entire family decides to visit Uncle Ray, after which Oliver participates in an upbeat tickertape parade celebrating his homecoming. Geared toward viewers ages five and up, the large cast and multiple locations in The Journey of Oliver K. Woodman are likely to be a tiny bit confusing; however, the funny stories and distinctive voices make this a solid choice, overall. Recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood)