(2) PS With the cadence of a folktale, the story starts, "There was once a duck...who thought he had no luck." The next few pages of softly colored illustrations demonstrate why he might feel this way: a rain shower soaks his picnic, a wheel comes off his scooter, a tree falls on his house. So Duck sets off on a journey to seek the counsel of Wise Owl. Along the way, he encounters three creatures with their own questions: why is Fox's tummy "noisy," why does Tree have no leaves, and why does Swan feel sad? Each hopes Duck will find Wise Owl and return with answers to their questions. Washes of color full of swirls and speckles provide visually appealing backgrounds for the expressive characters and dramatic scenes. The lively art plays off the text's more measured narration, which makes the story work well as a read-aloud. Wise Owl eventually appears; she recommends a good night's sleep and a fresh perspective for Duck and provides some answers for the others. Duck searches so intently for his promised luck that it seems he has missed the point, but readers would be wrong to underestimate him. He figures out how to take charge of his circumstances just in time, and "luckily," it all works out for the best.

Reviewer: Julie Roach | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2024

(3) K-3 Farm sheep Lola is sad to be shorn and even sadder when her wool grows in messy. But that wool provides a nest of sorts for a feathered friend--and friendship is more important than good looks, after all. The text's assured voice should make for an engaging read-aloud. Colorful, swirly art with thickly outlined figures creates a stained glass–like look.

Reviewer: Shoshana Flax

(3) K-3 Tina, a curious little cow, makes a surprising discovery while exploring the woods. Her three closed-minded sisters--only interested in "fresh and juicy grass"--set out to bring her home. When they venture into the unknown, a world of possibilities and wonder opens up. The crisp text and joyful art are well integrated.

Reviewer: Nancy Sheridan

(2) PS In this wry and loving story, a small crocodile who, unlike his siblings, doesn't like the water discovers his true nature when he sneezes--and breathes fire. Touches of red in the largely green world mark our hero as an outsider. The story involves no bullying; this is just about the joy and relief of finding yourself, with an added bonus for the aquaphobic reader.

Reviewer: Sarah Ellis | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2014