Going Out with Tucker and Scout is about an everyday activity – taking the dogs for a walk. Readers will hear about the different places the child and dogs want Mum to take them and the things that happen when they get there. It sounds like a very pleasant day out, but some of the pictures tell a rather different story.
Spread 1 We’re off for a walk with Tucker and Scout.
Where shall we go first? Let’s find out.
Spread 2 There’s a climbing frame that’s built like a shark
So, please Mum, can we go to the park?
Spread 3 I’m playing on the swings and slide, Tucker’s in the sand.
Mum is feeding ducks and geese; Scout lends a helping hand.
Spread 4 We’re out for a walk with Tucker and Scout.
Where shall we go next? Let’s find out.
Spread 5 Scout likes to race and chase Tucker around.
Please can you take us to the sports ground?
Spread 6 Scout is playing with a ball; I’m running round the track.
Mum is on the muddy field and Tucker’s found a snack.
Spread 7 We’re out for a walk with Tucker and Scout.
Where shall we go next? Let’s find out.
Spread 8 Tucker has promised to try to be good
So, please Mum, can we go to the wood?
Spread 9 I am playing hide and seek, Tucker’s found a tree.
Scout is talking to a bird and my Mum can’t find me.
Spread 10 We’re out for a walk with Tucker and Scout.
Where shall we go next? Let’s find out.
Spread 11 I’ve picked up loads of stuff today, Scout found a garden gnome.
Mum and Tucker both have sticks; they’re taking them back home.
Spread 12 The dogs have cleaned their muddy paws; I’ve put away our shoes.
I think we’ll have a bite to eat while my Mum has a snooze.
Spread 13 I’m bored now, so are Tucker and Scout.
What shall we do next? Let’s go out!
Illustration Note: I envisage idyllic pictures of the places they are going to visit on spreads 2, 5 and 8. The spreads following would show scenes of chaos in marked contrast to the previous picture and the text. For example, in Spread 6: People with tennis rackets chasing Scout; child going the wrong way round track, other runners falling over; Mum picking up heap of dog poo; Tucker taking rubbish from the bins. Everyone starts the story looking neat and tidy, but get messier (and Mum more stressed) over every spread.