Author Ed Shankman and illustrator Dave O'Neill turn their attention to
Vermont and one of that state's great legends: Champ, the Monster of
Lake Champlain. Champ is seen through the eyes of a likable tomboy, who
sets out from her favorite spot by a maple tree and finds herself by the
lakeshore. She meets Champ, who turns out to be a very kid-friendly
monster--inviting the girl to sit on his head and ride with him through
the Vermont countryside. Together, these unlikely friends dash past
farms and mills and over covered bridges, meet some cows, eat some maple
syrup-covered cheese, and eventually return to the girl's favorite maple
tree. The charming story ends as it began: If you come to Vermont / Near
a lake called Champlain, / And you cut through the woods / On an old
country lane, There's a chance you will see / My friend Champ and me /
Playing happy and free / By the old maple tree.