“Over There (Pixar Animation Studios Artist Showcase),” by Steve Pilcher, Disney Press, Oct. 14, 2014, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 3-5)
There must be something more. Right? That’s what Shredder, the main character in Steve Pilcher’s “Over There,” thinks.
Shredder is a shrew. He lives alone in the forest, and he loves his home, it’s just something, or someone, is missing. Shredder’s pet acorn can’t talk and there’s no one to sing along with. One night, Shredder notices a shiny object sparkling far from the safety of his home. This might be the answer, Shredder thinks, and decides it’s time for exploration. He sets out, and along the way makes a discovery that changes everything.
“Over There” is part of a series of picture books highlighting the talents of Pixar Animation Studios’ artists. The books feature personal work rather than existing stories and characters, and that’s what I love about this. It’s a Disney/Pixar book without being a Disney/Pixar book. You open “Over There” and it’s all original work. The illustrations are lush and the story is sweet. It stands alone without needing the oomph of the Pixar name.
“Over There” is a lovely little story. I can’t wait until my daughter is a little older and can notice the nuances throughout.
