Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

Gizmo loves to travel. The only problem was that in 2020, the world was shut down due to a deadly virus. In Heidi Heisel’s Gizmo Goes on a Road Trip, Gizmo is worried about putting on so much weight since he can’t get out and exercise like he usually does. Plus, he can’t travel. “Gizmo is a traveling dog,/ and he yearned for a vacation./ A road trip across the United States,/ to learn about this great nation.” When the restrictions are finally lifted. Gizmo packs his car and heads out of his home in Texas, keen to see some of the famous national parks in six different States, like Yellowstone. It’s a grand adventure that Gizmo won’t soon forget.

Heidi Heisel’s children’s book, Gizmo Goes on a Road Trip, is a travelogue aimed at inspiring young readers to enjoy road trips. The story is told in rhyming verse, which will appeal to younger readers. The illustrations are fascinating. The book's second half includes a photo album of the real trip the author took with her dog, Gizmo. Young readers will be intrigued by the adventures Gizmo has, including the animals he meets, the funny and interesting historical facts he learns, and the fears he faces when confronted with incredible heights in the mountain regions. He learns a lot on his journey and stores all kinds of incredible memories. This lyrical treasure will encourage young readers to seek out their own adventures, whether locally or somewhere across the country. An interesting and educational read.