Book Review: The Story of Tahoe Tessie (by Bob McCormick)

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When we first looked at Happy Cabin, I couldn’t help but notice the larger-than-life figure of a green dragon-like creature in the neighbor’s yard. It didn’t take long for me to get the story. On the weekend we moved in, a kind neighbor stopped by with gifts for our kids—a coloring book, soft-cover children’s story, and a small plush that looked just like the larger-than-life monster next door. It turns out that our neighbor is Bob McCormick, author of the popular children’s book, The Story of Tahoe Tessie: The Original Lake Tahoe Monster. The book tells the story of the legendary sea monster said to make Lake Tahoe her home. Loch Ness in Scotland has Nessie. Lake Tahoe has Tessie. Along the way, kids learn about the geologic history of Lake Tahoe and pick up some history. I recommend this book for parents wanting to give their 5- to 10-year-olds a sense of the lake’s history in a fun, memorable format that will engage their imaginations. It’s a happy read, and the “monster” parts aren’t too scary for my toddler. Bob’s Tahoe Tessie is a shy, friendly creature, not a scary beast. You can buy the book, the book’s sequel, and the plush Tahoe Tessie toy at Village Toys in Incline Village, or online at the Village Toys website.

To visit Happy Cabin during your trip to North Lake Tahoe / Tahoe Vista / Kings Beach, click here.