The Bunyans

Audrey Wood's 'The Bunyans' offers a fresh, family-centric take on the classic American tall tale. Instead of focusing solely on Paul Bunyan, the narrative expands to include his equally colossal wife and children, whose daily routines inadvertently sculpt the American landscape. From Niagara Falls being formed by a laundry day to Bryce Canyon emerging from a game of marbles, the book playfully explains the origins of natural monuments through exaggerated, humorous scenarios. The story handles the concept of creation metaphorically, using the Bunyans' immense scale to provide a fantastical, non-scientific explanation for geographical features, making it accessible and entertaining for young readers without being religiously or scientifically prescriptive. The emotional arc is consistently lighthearted and joyful, celebrating family teamwork and the sheer wonder of imagination. This book is specifically for children who enjoy larger-than-life characters, silly situations, and a good laugh. A parent might reach for this when their child is curious about natural landmarks, or simply when they need a fun, imaginative story that isn't too heavy. Parents should be prepared to discuss the difference between a 'tall tale' and scientific explanations for natural phenomena, which can be a great conversation starter about different kinds of stories. Younger children (4-6) will delight in the absurdity and the visual humor, while older children (7-11) can appreciate the cleverness of the tall tale format and the geographical references. What sets this book apart from other Paul Bunyan stories is its emphasis on the entire family, showcasing collaboration and shared adventures, rather than just the solitary heroics of Paul himself.