Who Loves Books?

Toddler-PreS–A vivid, playful celebration of books and reading. On asymmetrical, split pages, forest creatures frolic under a whimsical sky. Squirrel floats down the river in a boat offering each animal a book. At the tale’s end, every animal is reading. Owl calls out, “Whoo-whoo-whoo loves books?!” “Everyone!” they all answer from Squirrel’s S.S. Book Boat. Movement and cheerfulness fill every spread, despite the characters being engrossed in the quietude of reading. The bright gouache coloring and naive shapes, like simplistic round trees and blobby-shaped flowers, will endear youngsters just learning to put crayon to paper. The text reads as two-word sentences with a repeated refrain: “Squirrel calls, ‘A book for you!’” It’s not always clear to whom Squirrel is offering a book until the page is turned. The titular question, “Who loves books?” may have been a more effective refrain, encouraging the reader to name the animals holding books. The tall, slender size and flap pages neither add nor detract to the presentation, and ultimately feel unnecessary. Overall, this book will appeal to toddlers and caregivers who see themselves reflected in its lively spirit.