Raymond the Buffalo

Raymond is a brave, strong and hairy buffalo. Gilbert is a quiet, growing and not-at-all hairy boy. Raymond is the hero of Gilbert's favourite book, and Gilbert brings his favourite book everywhere. When an unfortunate incident separates the two, Raymond finds himself in a very unusual situation outside of his book and loose in the local library! There's nothing for Raymond to do but wait for Gilbert to come find him.

But as the days turn into months and months into years, Raymond has to be brave and make a new home in the library shelves and a new friend in the librarian, Nicole.

This adorably illustrated book celebrates the love we have for books and the strength of friendship. (From Orca Book Publishers)

Raymond the Buffalo is a finalist forthe 2022Silver Birch ExpressAward, which celebrates fiction books for readers in Grades 3-4.

Lou Beauchesne is an author and illustrator who has created more than 20 books geared for young readers.

Kate Chappell is an artist and illustrator based in Quebec.

• Here are the 2022 Silver Birch Express Award finalists

From the book