Author and illustrator Loren Long created a book with a farm setting and a tractor as a super hero in "Otis and the Tornado" (Philomel, 2011, $17.99), the follow-up to his 2009 book, "Otis."
I interviewed my 6-year-old son, Chase, an interesting character with a vivid imagination, after reading "Otis and the Tornado" to him.
Chase, whose grandparents own a farm, immediately wanted to get his paper and colored pencils and create Otis' next adventure.
What was your favorite part in the story?
I liked Otis saving the bull. He's a hero.
Do you think Otis was a good friend?
Yes, because he saved his friends.
Was there anything you did not like about the book?
The tornado. It looked scary.
What did you think about the pictures?
They were colorful. I liked how Otis was drawn. Everything looked real.
Do you feel there was a lesson learned in this book?
Yes. It was great that he saved his friends from the tornado, even the mean ole' bull. Otis wasn't selfish. He was brave.
Would you like to read other books about Otis?
Yeah.
Why?
Because I like Otis—he's a tractor. I love tractors!
Author Loren Long signs copies of "Otis and the Tornado" at 4 p.m. Sept. 7 at Lemuria Books (202 Banner Hall, 4465 Interstate 55 N., 601-366-7619).
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