Wombat Waiting

"The third-person perspective shifts from character to character in clusters of free-verse poems that fully immerse readers in each one's experiences in turn. This extra-concentrated delivery of Applegate's typically spare writing proves effective, balancing terror and sadness with heart and humor. Affecting and hopeful." - Kirkus Reviews

"The canine's endearing restlessness and aching to belong makes for a winning protagonist. While a happy ending is telegraphed early on, the narrative remains charged, with harrowing descriptions of the disaster-drawn from Southern California's recent fires-balanced by an undercurrent of hope. Expressive, realistic b&w illustrations from Bricking (Ivy and Forest Rewrite the World) amplify the emotional resonance." - Publishers Weekly

"[Henry and Wombat's] hesitant bond gently unfolds in spare but vivid text that sharpens emotion, from the specific grief both Henry and Wombat are feeling to the larger sense of loss, echoed in interactions with other community members whose homes have been devastated by the fire. Although not as fantastical as Applegate's Willodeen, the environmental bent makes this an easy pairing with that title, while the dual animal/human perspectives will draw in fans of Pennypacker's Pax." - Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"The tension stays strong. There is a lot of philosophy in the book that will offer interesting opportunities for conversation. There are themes of family and community, of loss and natural disasters, of making peace and forgiveness, of destiny and fate, how animals can help humans heal in surprising ways. An appealing and heartwarming story that will resonate with lots of readers. A charming novel in verse that fans of Katherine Applegate won't want to miss." - School Library Journal

"The stirring story is told via urgent, elegant verse, alternating between animal and human viewpoints as the Santa Ana winds and wildfires sweep across a Californian community. The mounting tension and moments of grief are countered by familial affection, burgeoning community, and flashes of levity (Wombat's increasing annoyance with the disembodied voice is particularly amusing), while occasional sketches are adorable. Animal lovers and Applegate appreciators alike will adore the gripping, gorgeous story." - Booklist