Tameka asks her Uncle Ray who lives in South Carolina to visit her in California. Uncle Ray can’t come so he builds a life-size wooden hitchhiker, names it Oliver and sends it on the road in his place. He asks travelers to help Oliver get to California and to send him a postcard if they do. Oliver gets a lift with all sorts of travelers, and their postcards comprise the text of this innovative story. As children follow Oliver’s adventures across the country, they see many different geographical regions and glimpse many aspects of American life. When Oliver finally arrives in California, Tameka’s parents decide to return him in person, and their family reunion in South Carolina includes a ticker-tape parade. A map of the United States provides a geographical reference for Oliver’s adventures.

American Library Association Notable Children’s Video Award Winner

Reviews

“A charming iconographic video which brings the book to life.”
ALA 2006 Notable Children’s Video Committee

“Darcy Pattison’s picture book, told via letters, is successful translated into an iconographic video. The wonderfully vibrant and colorful book illustrations by Joe Cepeda are superbly replicated in the video. The map illustrating Oliver’s route across the country is especially helpful and educational. Seven voice actors portray different characters; all are excellent. Eric Miller’s background music adds to the telling of this charming tale. Viewers will cheer Oliver, hoping he is successful in his quest to reach California.”
School Library Journal, May, 2005