  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 08/01/2016 Otis the lovable tractor is back with a new adventure. Long sets the scene in a drought, filling the illustrations with dusty grays and golds while the farmhands bale hay to store in the barn. Otis and old friends often enjoy a sociable game of tug-of-war after a long work day, but one afternoon, their relaxation time is disturbed by a cat running toward the barn. Curious about her behavior, Otis notices smoke coming out of the barn windows. Racing after her, Otis realizes her kittens are trapped inside. Otis performs a brave rescue, but before he can get out, the barn floor collapses. Otis’ animal friends must help the firefighters save the day. Long’s gouache-and-pencil illustrations expertly convey the action and emotion of the story. The large-scale format and carefully considered details add an exciting, cinematic quality to the pictures. For older readers, the narrative is an excellent example of foreshadowing. Otis fans won’t be disappointed by this series installment. - Copyright 2016 Booklist. Loading...
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