Viking Strong by Doug Cenko

Abstract

Reviewed by: Viking Strong by Doug Cenko Meg Cornell Cenko, Doug Viking Strong; written and illus. by Doug Cenko. Viking, 2023 [48p] Trade ed. ISBN 9780593202326 $18.99 E-book ed. ISBN 9780593202319 $10.99 Reviewed from digital galleys R 3-6 yrs Vikings Ingrid and Stig share a fun life making delicious stews, having high seas adventures, and dressing up their cats in silly outfits, but the two friends get focused when Ingrid wants to compete in the "Strongest Viking Contest." While sporty Ingrid can likely sail through most rounds of the competition ("Lifting of Really Heavy Things!" and the "Running of the Kittens!"), she doesn't know how to swim and therefore won't be able to make her way across the sea to the event's finish line. Despite continued attempts and Stig's moral support, Ingrid keeps sinking morosely to bottom. She still decides to compete, however, and at the final event, Stig hands her a floatie—but it turns out she's not the only participant to struggle with swimming, as all her Viking competitors, in wacky beach wear, have flotation devices too. Buoyant colors contrast with neutral-toned backgrounds, and figures have an approachable cartoonish style, with varied, energetic shapes that convey the rowdy joy of the Viking contests and characters. Endpapers bring added interest with Viking art and early medieval interlace designs while cat-crazy kids will be especially pleased with the sheer variety of adorable felines incorporated across this book. As in Cenko's previous Viking in Love (BCCB 11/21), inclusive character design and affirmation of non-traditional gender expression make this an exuberant and supportive addition to any collection, especially as Ingrid reconsiders what Viking strength means to her. [End Page 286] Copyright © 2023 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois