Praise

Gamarra (author of How to Grow a Marshmallow Tree), fortunately, handles tones and feelings in storytelling more deftly than Kai does. Readers will enjoy how, despite this disappointing reception, Kai continues to delight in his world of make-believe, getting a kick out of running into town shouting, “A kappa is here to take me away!” After a while, everyone stops listening—and that’s when Kai gets a thrilling surprise that will test his cleverness and blur the line between fantasy and reality. Cleverly, Gamarra doesn’t belabor whether Kai’s riverside encounter with a kappa was actually “real,” which will encourage kids to ask questions and come to their own conclusions.

Marta Pilosio’s distinctive illustrations offer a thrilling glimpse into Kai’s old-timey world, with the children wearing simple, practical clothing and the adults shown holding farming implements and loaves of bread. The pictures utilize mostly muted tones of gray, blue, and brown, giving the ethereal sense that Willow Creek is similar to—yet distinct from—contemporary life. The children’s faces are curious and expressive, while the adults are often shown scowling while going about their work. Ultimately, this captivating tale encourages kids and grownups to put aside their chores and revel in their imaginations.

Takeaway: Lively modern fairy tale of the excitement and power of storytelling.

Spot Problems is a delightful picture book that encourages children to guess or investigate questions posed in the book and even take the discussion one step further. Here's a small fraction of questions that'll get their (brain) wheels turning: Do all ladybugs have spots? Should we paint bugs or insects? Besides the hiding spot in the book, where else could a polar bear blend seamlessly into the scenery? What other animals use their coloring to their advantage in the wild?