The Tale of the Swamp Rat

by Carter Crocker

Ossie is the runt of his litter, and so shy that he's never spoken a word! When he's wounded and left orphaned by a snake attack, it looks like the end. But Ossie finds an unexpected Uncle Will, the old gator who is a legend in the swamp. Surprisingly, Will adopts the little rat and takes him all around their world, teaching him the swamp's lore, and introducing him to its colorful residents and its rich stories. But even Will can't do anything about the terrible drought that's drying up the swamp—nor about Bubba, a crabby old stork who decides Ossie is the perfect scapegoat for their troubles. In the end, Ossie has to do what his father always told him he'd have to find his own way.

240 pages, Paperback

First published March 17, 2005

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has been a highlight in the read alouds that Vic & Joseph have done for bedtime reading. This brings the swamp animals to life as they face an extreme drought in their world. Philosophy comes from the old stork, Bubba, protection and guidance comes from Uncle Will, the oldest alligator in the swamp. And in the end? The youngsters of the swamp save the day and that old rattlesnake, Mr. Tuck, gets his!