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Honk the Moose
On Cattermole s 100 Best Children s Books of the 20th Century list and a 1936 Newbery Honor Book, this children s classic is sure to please children of all ages. What do you do when a moose takes over your town? Three young boys try to save a moose through the cold Minnesota winter.
81 pages, Hardcover
First published December 1, 1935
5 people are currently reading
218 people want to read
About the author
Phil Stong
58 books5 followersPhilip Duffield Stong (January 27, 1899-April 26, 1957) was an American author, journalist and Hollywood scenarist. He is best known for writing the novel State Fair, on which three films (1933, 1945 and 1962) and one musical by that name were based.
Stong was born in Pittsburg, Iowa, near Keosauqua. His father operated the general store, which is now an antique store. The 1844 brick house where Stong was born is located adjacent to the store and is now a private residence. He attended Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.
Stong scored his first success in 1932 with the publication of his famous novel, State Fair, which was later adapted for the screen as the hit Rodgers and Hammerstein musical of the same name. In addition to his novels, his short stories were published in most of the leading national magazines of the time, and he wrote several screenplays.
As a nine-year old city boy travels from Des Moines, Iowa by train to visit his grandfather's farm in the early 1900s, he imagines how he will impress his cousins ― with stories of skyscrapers and trolley cars, automobiles and the Union Park Zoo, Ingersoll Amusement Park, and the Capitol ― things he thinks might dazzle farm boys. However, as his cousins and his grandfather introduce him to country life, the eyes that are dazzled become his own.
The Iowa Kids 1910 series is a collection of three unforgettable stories -- humorously captured and simply told. Farm Boy, High Waters, No-Sitch the Hound.
As a boy, the author Phil Stong spent many hours on a farm owned by his maternal grandparents -- the Duffields -- where he walked the land, fished in the creek, played in the dairy barn, chored for his grandparents, and otherwise immersed himself in the wonders and wisdom of rural life. Linwood Farm, as it was called, was located just three miles west of Keosauqua across the Des Moines River on the ridge line in Pittsburg. The farm remained in the Duffield family until it was sold during World War I. But in 1932, Stong bought back the family's historic farm which he owned until he died in 1957.
Phil Stong's experiences on Linwood Farm were later captured in many of his literary works, particularly in his books for young people. The Iowa Kids 1910 series is a collection of three unforgettable stories -- humorously captured and simply told.
About his writing career, he once said, "Fell while trying to clamber out of a low bathtub at the age of two. Became a writer. No other possible career."
Stong's The Other Worlds: 25 Modern Stories of Mystery and Imagination, was considered by Robert Silverberg (in the foreword to Best of the Best: 20 Years of the Year's Best Science Fiction) to be the first anthology of science-fiction. Compiling stories from 1930s pulp magazines, along with what Stong called "Scientifiction" it also contained works of horror and fantasy.
Stong published more than forty books. He died at his home in Washington, Connecticut, in 1957. Stong is buried at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Keosauqua.
Asked in 1951 to comment on humanism, Stong responded: "I’ve never gone deeply enough into any of the various definitions of “humanism” to be able to make any intelligent or instructive comment on the subject. When I read any of these tenuous expositions, they remind me (a) of the blind men and the elephant and (b) that I’d better have a glass of beer and get to bed. I don’t see how you distinguish between the humanism of More and that of Dewey or of Aristophanes or Lackland or Chaucer or Bunyan or Saintsbury or Taine. The boys that practice it seem to me tremendously more effective than the ones who preach it from the varied pulpits."
Stong was born in Pittsburg, Iowa, near Keosauqua. His father operated the general store, which is now an antique store. The 1844 brick house where Stong was born is located adjacent to the store and is now a private residence. He attended Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.
Stong scored his first success in 1932 with the publication of his famous novel, State Fair, which was later adapted for the screen as the hit Rodgers and Hammerstein musical of the same name. In addition to his novels, his short stories were published in most of the leading national magazines of the time, and he wrote several screenplays.
As a nine-year old city boy travels from Des Moines, Iowa by train to visit his grandfather's farm in the early 1900s, he imagines how he will impress his cousins ― with stories of skyscrapers and trolley cars, automobiles and the Union Park Zoo, Ingersoll Amusement Park, and the Capitol ― things he thinks might dazzle farm boys. However, as his cousins and his grandfather introduce him to country life, the eyes that are dazzled become his own.
The Iowa Kids 1910 series is a collection of three unforgettable stories -- humorously captured and simply told. Farm Boy, High Waters, No-Sitch the Hound.
As a boy, the author Phil Stong spent many hours on a farm owned by his maternal grandparents -- the Duffields -- where he walked the land, fished in the creek, played in the dairy barn, chored for his grandparents, and otherwise immersed himself in the wonders and wisdom of rural life. Linwood Farm, as it was called, was located just three miles west of Keosauqua across the Des Moines River on the ridge line in Pittsburg. The farm remained in the Duffield family until it was sold during World War I. But in 1932, Stong bought back the family's historic farm which he owned until he died in 1957.
Phil Stong's experiences on Linwood Farm were later captured in many of his literary works, particularly in his books for young people. The Iowa Kids 1910 series is a collection of three unforgettable stories -- humorously captured and simply told.
About his writing career, he once said, "Fell while trying to clamber out of a low bathtub at the age of two. Became a writer. No other possible career."
Stong's The Other Worlds: 25 Modern Stories of Mystery and Imagination, was considered by Robert Silverberg (in the foreword to Best of the Best: 20 Years of the Year's Best Science Fiction) to be the first anthology of science-fiction. Compiling stories from 1930s pulp magazines, along with what Stong called "Scientifiction" it also contained works of horror and fantasy.
Stong published more than forty books. He died at his home in Washington, Connecticut, in 1957. Stong is buried at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Keosauqua.
Asked in 1951 to comment on humanism, Stong responded: "I’ve never gone deeply enough into any of the various definitions of “humanism” to be able to make any intelligent or instructive comment on the subject. When I read any of these tenuous expositions, they remind me (a) of the blind men and the elephant and (b) that I’d better have a glass of beer and get to bed. I don’t see how you distinguish between the humanism of More and that of Dewey or of Aristophanes or Lackland or Chaucer or Bunyan or Saintsbury or Taine. The boys that practice it seem to me tremendously more effective than the ones who preach it from the varied pulpits."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
September 25, 2025
I loved it. The story held attention and the illustrations....beautiful. A moose wonders into a stable, during a long cold winter, and finds a temporary home. Honk becomes friends with all.
December 5, 2014
Here's a Newbery Honor book about a moose - and there aren't many around about moose! Honk is found by two young boys in their stable which surprises them since they were just discussing how they would like to be super hunters and shoot a moose! Since this was a 1936 Newbery Honor book, times were different then especially since this story took place in the little town of Birona, Minnesota where hunting was a way of life. Of course, the best part is what happens to Honk, the moose. The illustrations make the story that much better. On the back cover this book is noted as being one of the 100 best books of the 20th Century. I thoroughly enjoyed the tale and the moose. This is based on a true story and the historical facts about this little town of Finnish immigrants make this a very special story indeed.
October 10, 2014
I enjoyed this illustrated short chapter book. It is dated and there are a couple of culturally insensitive references, and those who are bothered by hunting won't appreciate that the boys had been out hunting. However, the book is a product of a different time. And the overall story is one of humor and compassion for the moose. Two boys find a moose in the stable and aren't sure what to do. They show their father, who is dumbstruck. They send for the police, then the mayor and city council to determine what to do. The boys, particularly, defend the moose. A fast read but I found it quite enjoyable.
May 12, 2019
With its Finnish characters and Minnesota's Iron Range setting, this story would be perfect for my nephews.
June 6, 2009
One of the most funny and delightful children's books around.
July 7, 2017
Laugh out loud funny in places, quiet and heart-warming in others, this is a charming classic about a moose who becomes friends with two Finnish boys. Most pages are illustrated.
March 25, 2018
A funny little story about a moose who comes to stay in a town barn for the winter and is befriended by three young boys.
Short and sweet, but nothing spectacular.
Short and sweet, but nothing spectacular.
July 20, 2023
Adorable little 80-page chapter book (and easily one-third of those pages have illustrations) based on the true story of a moose who wanted to live in town. We just visited the town (in northern Minnesota) and learned about the legend of Honk!! I’m an instant fan!
December 14, 2021
I very much enjoyed this humorous story about a wild moose seeking winter shelter in a barn. I laughed out loud at some of the people's antics when they discovered that there really was a moose in the barn, and that the barn's owner was not barmy after all. Kurt Wiese's illustrations--some black and white and some in color--were spot on and enhanced the humor of the story. I sure am glad that this book is still in print, or at least was as of 2001 (the date on the edition I read). I wish that the Newbery committee would give out the award and honors to more humorous stories than they do. I can only think of a few laugh-out-loud stories that won a Newbery award or honor.
June 24, 2015
When two boys discover a moose residing in Ivar's father's stable, eating up the hay, chaos ensues. Soon, everyone from Ivar to the mayor and the city council is involved in deciding the fate of the poor, tired moose.
Know what? This book is actually really, really funny. When I picked it up at the library for my Newbery project, it looked rather outdated, and the flap cover was not inspiring. However, I ended up enjoying it immensely. Maybe it's only a four star book, but I'm giving it five, just for the lovely surprise it gave me.
Know what? This book is actually really, really funny. When I picked it up at the library for my Newbery project, it looked rather outdated, and the flap cover was not inspiring. However, I ended up enjoying it immensely. Maybe it's only a four star book, but I'm giving it five, just for the lovely surprise it gave me.
November 11, 2014
I can't believe I've never read this one before! It holds up very well for its age. The length is perfect for a school-aged child to enjoy on their own or read with a parent. The illustrations are really fun. I definitely got nostalgic for some of the older picture books of my youth while reading this.
August 28, 2014
This story is about a moose who couldn't find any food in the deep snow, So what does he do? He finds a stable and two boys. He goes in and starts eating the hay. Everyone in town gets involved in what to do with the Moose, who the boys call Honk.
This is a delightful story and would be one for adults to read to younger children.
This is a delightful story and would be one for adults to read to younger children.
February 11, 2013
true storyabout a moose that came to dinner. and stayed. by the author of "state fair"
republished by the mayor of the small town it takes place in.
republished by the mayor of the small town it takes place in.
July 30, 2021
Although dated, I thought this book was funny. Lucy enjoyed saying hhhaaawwwnnkkkk.
June 25, 2022
How did this classic book never get in my radar? If you would like to read a "classic" feel book that should appeal to a wide audience, try and find this 1930's Newbery honor winner. The story itself is so fun and the whimsical illustrations will take you back to yesteryear. Bonus for me is that my family has vacationed in the Iron Range many years. We have always wanted to spot a moose and never have. Look up the history about how the author was inspired to write the story- it is based on a real town experience, Biwabik, MN. Don't skip the introduction from the mayor of the town. Only down side- I had no kiddo to share this reading experience. This one is best with a child in your lap or by your side sipping hot cocoa.
September 27, 2018
3.5+ stars. Here is a pleasant tale set during a Minnesotan winter about a moose who comes to town. Two young boys of Finnish descent are out in the cold hunting (with air rifles) on skis and on return to town they find a moose ensconced in a stable eating hay. The moose is a young male who goes by the name Honk. Initially everyone is frightened by him which given moose is sensible, but his easygoing nature wins them over. This was quite a fun read and I really wish it was currently in print. I read this for my 2018 Reading Challenge and my Newbery Challenge.
January 21, 2025
It had been a particularly rough winter and a hungry moose wandered into the town of Birora, Minnesota looking for food. The door of a livery stable was open and the moose went in and contentedly starting eating the hay in a stall. Two boys, Ivar and Waino, discovered the moose. The question became what to do next?
Fun. Based on a true story so it's doubly fun to think about the actual events.
Fun. Based on a true story so it's doubly fun to think about the actual events.
February 12, 2018
This is a cute little picture book from 1935, part of my Newbery collection. My copy is a reprint from a couple decades later, and I enjoyed the introduction note from the mayor of the town it's set in. This is a dramatization of an actual event, and the real town has a statue of Honk the Moose. Quite entertaining.
March 21, 2024
Cute pictures and a good story - reminded me of the tone of Mike Mulligan. There are some culturally insensitive parts but also probably realistic to the time. Based on a true story from Biwabik, Minnesota and overall a story of kindness. I wish I had known it was based on a true story when I read it. Apparently all of the characters are real except the police chief.
November 2, 2020
4.5 stars
The illustrations were nice and
attractive and appropriate.
Actually they were quite beautiful in
a way.
The storyline--plot--was quite good.
It was quite an appealing story in a way.
Children in general would quite enjoy it.
The illustrations were nice and
attractive and appropriate.
Actually they were quite beautiful in
a way.
The storyline--plot--was quite good.
It was quite an appealing story in a way.
Children in general would quite enjoy it.
November 9, 2022
A nice picture book based on a true story. Honk the Moose welcomed himself into the barns and hearts of the residents of Birora, Minnesota. Ivar and Waino, two young boys, defended and protected the moose until he became a type of town mascot that everyone was happy to see.
November 10, 2020
I really enjoyed this story. Honk was a pretty cool moose.
February 11, 2021
Retro Read: The 1930's classic, award winning adventures of two little boys in Minnesota ,who find a real live moose in their farm stable. Colored pencil sketches add to the book's humor, love the moose's eyes.
May 21, 2021
We read this book over a few nights. We loved it!
May 21, 2021
The suggested ages are 8-12, but I’d say more like 6-8.
Read
July 3, 2021Funny read aloud with my 5 year old. Great illustrations
Want to read
June 13, 20251936 Newbery honor book
December 15, 2025
This was amazing, and way better than I (or my children, who insisted it would be boring 🤪) had expected from first glance. Perfect for a northern winter read!
August 28, 2014
This book was originally written in 1935. If it were written today, It would most likely not be written as a picture book due to the mature content. The content I am speaking about is how everyone keeps saying they should shoot the moose and are waving guns around. Also, there is a lot of racism such as "getting angrier than a Chinaman." I appreciate that this book is advertized for grades 3-7 which is appropriate. I would categorize this as an historical fiction.
With all that said, this book was cute. The whole town had to deal with a hungry moose that snuck into town, ate expensive hay, and wouldn't go away. And of course the young boys dealt with the moose better than the grown men which makes it more fun.
Would I recommend this book? YES. For older readers looking for historical fiction and who like stories about the outdoors
With all that said, this book was cute. The whole town had to deal with a hungry moose that snuck into town, ate expensive hay, and wouldn't go away. And of course the young boys dealt with the moose better than the grown men which makes it more fun.
Would I recommend this book? YES. For older readers looking for historical fiction and who like stories about the outdoors
January 10, 2023
Ivar and Waino, two friends who live in Minnesota, go on an unsuccessful hunting excursion, but when they come back to Ivar's father's livery, they find a moose. The moose eats a lot of hay. Mr. Ketonen, Ivar's father, is not happy about how much hay the moose eats, and he sends the boys to get Mr. Ryan, the policeman, to get rid of the moose. The men don't want to shoot the moose, so they get the mayor. The mayor and the city council try to come up with a plan, and Honk wanders away in the night. The next day he comes back for more hay. Mr. Ketonen closes the doors the next day so the moose can't get in, but the boys sneak the moose hay, and he follows them home. He lives in town all winter, but in spring he goes back to the wild. The next winter, Honk comes back to the livery.
This was cute and funny.
This was cute and funny.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews