Since we last left Bruce, he and his geese children have been catching the bus south for their annual winter trip, spending their time on a beach in Miami (even though Bruce would much rather have been hibernating, but these are the sacrifices parents make for their children, right?)
Upon returning from their holiday however, as Bruce carries his four sleeping geese children into the house (in possibly one of the most gorgeous illustrations ever!), he discovers that some mice have taken it over. Bruce's home has been turned into a hotel for woodland creatures. Unsurprisingly, Bruce is not happy with this unexpected intrusion, and things only get worse as the very long night turns into a brand new day.
The minimal text, combined with Ryan T. Higgins' vibrant and enticing illustrations, creates a story that has great appeal across all family members, from 3 through to 33. Bruce's exasperation is so deliciously captured as we watch him trying to reclaim his his home from an array of woodland creatures; a toad in the toilet, a beaver chomping up his dining room table, and a sly fox who is attempting to convince several turtles to take a bath. In a pot. On the stove.
As in the first book, we find that no matter how grumpy, cranky, or downright mad Bruce gets, his soft side always ends up finding its way out. Pure delight from cover to cover, I sincerely hope that this is not the last we see of Bruce and his growing family.
Title: Hotel Bruce
Author/Illustrator: Ryan T Higgins
Publisher: Disney Hyperion, $29.99
Publication Date: 14 March 2017
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9781484743621
For ages: 5-8
Type: Picture Book