Ralph the unstoppable cow tackles the new challenge of learning to swim with the same unsinkable optimism that got him off the ground in
When Pigs Fly.
Ralph and his friend Morris are trying to beat the heat of a scorching hot summer’s day. What better way to cool off than to go swimming? But wait, cows don’t swim. Or do they? Well, not like ducks, or turtles, or frogs! Readers will laugh along with Ralph, and learn about optimism, resourcefulness, and positive thinking.
Extras:Free Activity SheetsFree Teachers' Guide / Lesson PlanAccelerated Reader Quiz from Renaissance Learning
“Ralph is a fresh and endearing character. His cheerfulness in the face of adversity, and his refusal to listen to the naysayers and settle for conventional bovine behaviour, will be an inspiration to youngsters everywhere.” – School Library Journal, May 2004
“... readers in search or need of empowerment stories will enjoy this splashy sequel ... Rogé illustrates the encouraging episode with sunny country scenes of jellybean-shaped ruminants in striped swimwear … Ralph's example could mooooove readers to take on preconceived limitations with like optimism and determination.” – Kirkus Reviews, Nov. 2003
“... absolutely engaging … What a great lesson we can all learn from Ralph – if you really want to achieve something, a positive attitude, a great effort, and a little bit of ingenuity will help.” – Independently Reviewed, Spring 2004
“Ralph is a lovable, likable cow that is a model of willpower. What an entertaining way for children to learn that some challenges take oodles of effort and tons of determination. This amusing picture book is perfect for a rollicking fun story-time. Bold, bright and colorful illustrations by Rogé fill the pages and bring Ralph’s world to life in a way that will leave you smiling long after the book is closed and put away.” – Children’s Book News, Winter 2004
“… will get kids laughing and turning pages … Undaunted when confronted with this foreign experience, the ever-optimistic Ralph responds, 'Well, not yet, we don’t … But we could learn.'” – ForeWord, June 2004
“The text is fun and logical in a deliciously silly way. The illustrations by Rogé are energetic and vibrant. Ralph is an admirable hero because he never gives up. His adventures provide a positive role model for children who often feel overwhelmed learning new skills. E for Excellent.” – Resource Links, Feb. 2004
“... a wonderfully funny story that will appeal to children of all ages. Children will be able to identify with Ralph's and Morris’ struggle in a positive way and will learn how an optimistic outlook can make even the most tedious of situations worthwhile and fun ... a story that will make children chortle with delight and will warm the hearts of adults ... Highly Recommended.” – CM: Canadian Review of Materials,Jan. 2005
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Finalist, Independent Publisher Book Awards, Best Children’s Picture Book (2004)
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Shortlisted, Saskatchewan Young Readers’ Choice Shining Willow Award (2004)
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Shortlisted, Ontario Library Association Blue Spruce Reading Program Award (2004)
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Winner, 2nd Prize 2003 Alcuin Society Award for Excellence in Book Design, Children’s Category
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Selected, Resource Links: The Year’s Best (2004)
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Chirp Magazine “Summer Reading Pick” (June 2004)
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Canadian Children’s Book Centre Our Choice Selection (2004)
