Squirrel's New Year's Resolution

PreS-Gr 2—On January first, Squirrel hears on the radio that it is a great day to make a resolution. Not knowing how to make one, she visits Bear, the librarian, who tells her that "a resolution is a promise you make to yourself to be better or to help others." As Squirrel walks through the woods to think of a resolution, she meets other woodland friends who need help. She cheers up Skunk, who is sick in bed; helps Mole and Turtle find the perfect place to dig a garden; and teaches Porcupine some silly jokes so he can laugh more. At the Hidey Hole Diner, Squirrel is still stumped that she doesn't have a resolution until all of her friends tell how she helped them keep their promises and she learns that her actions speak for themselves. The simple dialogue and predictable plot make this a good read-aloud, and the brightly colored, acrylic cartoons are full of fun details and expression, giving the woodland creatures anthropomorphic characteristics. This introduction to the tradition of resolutions is a strong addition to holiday collections.—Kristine M. Casper, Huntington Public Library, NY