Dial/Dutton/Putnam. - The Picturebook Shelf

Children's Bookwatch, August, 2004

Dial/Dutton/Putnam

345 Hudson, New York NY 10014

www.penguin.com

This publisher's summer reading list will involve even the most reluctant kid with gorgeous, appealing picturebooks. Little Loon And Papa (0803729588, $15.99) by Toni Buzzeo receives Margaret Spengler's gorgeous drawings as it tells of a little loon afraid of driving in the water. His father tries to teach him--but he's still too afraid, in this story of learning new skills. Allan Sherman wrote the 'Hello Muddah' song, so he's the perfect choice to produce a picturebook on the story line, paired with Lou Busch and illustrated by Jack Davis in Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah--a Letter From Camp (0525469427, $12.99). The lyrics to the 'ultimate camp song' here are paired with hilariously different settings to create an expanded lesson on irony. Margie Palatini's Stinky Smelly Feet: A Love Story (0525472010, $15.99) receives Ethan Long's funny drawings and comes from an art design school grad herself as it tells of a romance facing a challenge from stinky feet. No amount of washing will help: is the romance doomed? Katy Hall and Lisa Eisenberg's Piggy Riddles (0803728667, $14.99) pairs pictures by Renee Andriani with a set of riddles perfect for boaring days. Pig fans will relish these different riddles. Allan Ahlberg's The Little Cat Baby (0803730128, $10.99) receives delightful drawings by Fritz Wegner and a vintage appearance as it tells of a couple who visit the Baby Shop to pick up a little cat baby. Black and white drawings may limit kids who seek color, but the tale is perfect for read-aloud. David LaRochelle's The Best Pet Of All (0525471294, $15.99) receives Hanako Wakiyama's engaging drawings as it tells of a boy who wants to keep a dragon for a pet. His mother says 'yes', certain he won't find one; but the boy discovers a dragon who just won't leave. All are engaging, recommended picks.