Usually I prefer books with a message. But sometimes you need a book that, well, is just for fun and a message is not needed. And that was A Very Cranky Book. Of course you could say that there is a message, about being a cranky person/book and dealing with friends like that, but overall, it is just a silly story by the wife and husband team of Angela DiTerlizzi and Tony Diterlizi.
The cranky book is this story is, well, cranky. They do not want to be read. They do not want to have others around them, or other nice things happening. And this cranky creation tells you to go ride your bike, watch a movie, do anything except bother him. Except, well, maybe they do want to be read, and not be alone. This clever, cute, odd, bun, sweet, minimalist illustrations book shows all this and more. 
Read via an online reader, due mid-September 2023, this book has some fun illustrations. You see the stuffed animals giving side-eyes, and some little hidden things. And later, when more books show up, with their own themes, stories and personalities, getting ready for a reading-aloud time, there are some fun things about them as well. .
Overall, the book is cozy, but warm. There is a lot going on if you look. Most ages can be read to, and those with help can read themselves. Probably up to around first or lower second grade would be best for that. I am looking forward to seeing the final copy as I am sure there are things that I missed reading online.
