Sam and Dave Dig a Hole

Written by Mac Barnett · Illustrated by Jon Klassen

Two brothers dig a hole in search of something spectacular.

5.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 10,685 ratings

40 pages· 275 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud· 450L

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Bookroo's summary

Sam and Dave embark on a quest to uncover something extraordinary by digging a hole. Despite their efforts, they find nothing. Yet, their day transforms into an unexpected adventure, revealing that sometimes the true treasure lies in the journey itself. Will they discover the hidden wonders beneath the surface, or is the real surprise waiting above ground? This witty tale invites readers to look beyond the obvious and find joy in the unexpected.

From the publisher

Sam and Dave are on a mission. A mission to find something spectacular. So they dig a hole. And they keep digging. And they find . . . nothing. Yet the day turns out to be pretty spectacular after all. Attentive readers will be rewarded with a rare treasure in this witty story of looking for the extraordinary — and finding it in a manner you’d never expect.

Awards

Caldecott Honor (2015)The E.B. White Read Aloud Award (2015)

At a glance

Format
Pages: 40
Words: 275
Reading age: 4–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: 450L

Themes & topics

Books about teamwork Books about friendship Books about explorers Books about hard work Books about imagination and play

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.5

out of 7

5.8

“Come for the minimalist illustrations, stay for the dramatic irony! I love the way that the text and the illustrations work together to tell this story. The characters, situation, and plot are all pretty bare bones, but it has everything it needs to pull in its readers. It has been a good book for my toddler who is starting to read on her own as well!”

Lauren Hancock

Trusted reviewer

The author