"Stringbean" Cesar Joseph Coe and his older brother Fred camp one summer as they drive to and from the Pacific, writing a postcard a day to their family in Jeloway, Kansas. As Stringbean himself gradually gains pride in his family heritage, readers may notice that the brothers have a Hispanic background. The postcard greetings and the cards themselves bearing innovative postage become the book's pages, representing a variety of natural wonders, tourist stops and historic places. Superior characterization and plotting earmark the writing. A virtual showcase of art styles and humor distinguish the varied visual elements of a book which can be either randomly looked at and enjoyed or read from beginning to end and enjoyed. Subsequent reading and browsing reveals additional depths. Winner, 1988 CCBC Caldecott Discussion. (Ages 5-10)

Dear Reader,
Here are the postcards and snapshots that Stringbean Coe and his brother Fred sent home from the long trip they made one summer in Fred's truck.

Their grandfather made this album for the family--and for you. Enjoy yourselves!

Love,
Vera and Jennifer

Stringbean Coe, his big brother, Fred, and their dog, Potato, are driving from Kansas to California in a pickup truck with a little house built on the back. Reading the postcards they send home every day is the next best thing to having a cross-country adventure all your own.

"A good-hearted celebration of life and experience, and a gift to the public."--School Library Journal