In my I Read This journal, I write down the titles and authors/illustrators of picture books I have read. And today I read The Red Jacket. I will also put a note next to it saying, I do not need this book anymore, but you just might. What I mean is, we follow a duck walking past everyone, being ignored, until he finds a bird with a fabulous red jacket. And the bird asks the duck, “Do you want a red jacket?” Why would they give away an awesome red jacket? They tell the duck (and we the reader) they do not need it anymore.
We learn that the duck is named Bob (which just so happens to be the name of the author, Bob Holt). And when Bob wears that red jacket, well woo-doggie! This is the best jacket ever! It even has fries in the pockets! And off Bob goes, running into people who see him. Bob is all excited, to the point he does not pay attention and well, something happens so he loses his jacket. Does this mean he will lose his friends, too?
Holt also is the illustrator of this little gem. They are simple, little details that are important, but not crowded (unless you count the group of birds). I would not say they were cozy, but they are comfortable enough. Not overly colorful, except for the red jacket and a few other spots (there is a bit of blue, and yellow), but not underwhelming. There was a few spots that had a few bumps but overall, I enjoyed this book. Due in early July 2023 I might have to get a copy or two for friends.
