The Journey of Oliver K. Woodman

STARRED KIRKUS AND BCCB REVIEWS

Join Oliver K. Woodman on his unforgettable journey across America in this beloved picture book that makes learning friendly letter writing and U.S. geography an adventure!

When Uncle Ray builds a wooden man in his South Carolina workshop, he never imagines the cross-country adventure that awaits. Unable to deliver Oliver to his niece in California himself, Uncle Ray creates a sign: "Hi! I'm Oliver K. Woodman. Please help me get to California!" What happens next is pure magic.

Kind strangers give Oliver rides, and each one sends postcards and letters back to Uncle Ray, sharing Oliver's incredible journey. From truckers in Texas to families exploring the Utah desert, Oliver's adventure unfolds through friendly letters.

Perfect for elementary classrooms, this engaging story helps students:

• Master friendly letter writing through authentic examples
• Explore U.S. geography as Oliver travels from state to state
• Practice reading different types of correspondence
• Understand letter format, including dates, greetings, and closings
• Discover how voice and personality shine through in writing

"All geography lessons should be this much fun!" raved the Kirkus reviewer, and it's true-Oliver's route takes readers through the American heartland, past stunning landmarks, and into the lives of fascinating people from all walks of life. Each letter reveals not just Oliver's location but the unique character of different regions across the United States.

Teachers love how this book naturally integrates language arts and social studies. Students can trace Oliver's route on the map in the back of the book, write their own letters as if they've given Oliver a ride, or create postcards from different states. The authentic letter formats provide perfect models for teaching friendly letter writing conventions while keeping students engaged with the humor and heart of Oliver's adventure.

This charming tale proves that sometimes the best journeys are the ones that bring people together-one letter at a time.

BCCB Blue Ribbon Picture Book Awards

Starred BCCB review

Starred Kirkus Review

Irma S. and James H. Black Picture Book Award Honor Book.

Nutmeg Media Children's Picture Books on Video, June 2005.

ALA Notable Video.

Houghton Mifflin Journeys reading series.