How many times will I tell you I really like picture books? Oh at least once more, or I should say at least this review. Not only are they quick for the adult reader, but they allow you to spend time with your favorite little reader, or make a reader with the right book, or find your classroom having a quiet time. And these two books fit the ticket.
Personally, I’m not a huge fan of the story, The Duck With No Luck by Gemma Merino, but I can feel that certain “something” that will make this a favorite of people. The unlucky duck of our story does not see how lucky they actually are, because they are only looking at things one way (all the negatives that happen). This theme is a good message for children and adults alike. While the answers are “in your face,” it is not preachy. Kids will know some of the issues that will/could happen (a fox with a rumbly tummy and a duck anyone?) but others will be a surprise (the tree has a unique reason why their leaves haven’t come out yet). The illustrations are colorful and quirky which fit things well. Things are not flying off the page colorful, but they are not muted either. Details are what is needed to set the mood. Folktale, classic and modern tones allow this book to work on many levels for many types of readers/listeners. Read via an online reader copy, though it is currently available.
Now, the other day I received a text from a cousin who asked me if I had heard of the author, Jack Jokinen. They had an opportunity to preorder a signed copy of the book Stray Dog for Christmas: How Suzy Was Adopted and wanted to know about the author and book. I looked it up and told them it is illustrated by Wendy Tan and is due in early October 2024. But while I had not heard of the author, when I looked at the cover, it did look familiar. I figured I must have seen the online reader copy before and went to find it. Sure enough there was a copy in my reader links, and I took lunchtime to read. It is a slightly too slickly illustrated story (the colors are nail polish shine, minimal details, but still busy) that convey the theme of Adopt, Don’t Shop. I like the idea of adopting a stray dog, I mean one would have to be a real Grinch if a street puppy who is cold and hungry doesn’t tug at your heartstrings. But I was not Wowed! by it. I will recommend it, as I like how the magic of Christmas comes into play and the family realizes they have a full house with two grownups, a month old baby and a doggie named George but will still have room for their new four-footed-furry sister, Suzy. (Though, for some reason I see a Buttermilk there instead of a Suzy.)
These books are different, so perhaps you will enjoy one over the other, but regardless, take the time out and yourself a little sit down reading time!
