Matilda and Hans

Boldly outlined, naïf-style illustrations are paired with mysterious mischief in this entry from Japanese artist Yokococo. Matilda is a sweet-faced gray cat who reads quietly at home, while the masked and whiskered Hans plays pranks at night. Are the two friends? Brother and sister? “One night Hans climbed the gates of the zoo... took the keys... and set all the animals free!” A giddy spread shows the results of Hans’s prank: a pair of flamingoes try on shoes at the shoe store, a kangaroo and her joey relax on a park bench, and a group of the zoo’s water creatures commune in the municipal fountain. Meanwhile, Matilda watches it all from her window, her huge, expressive eyes wide. Alert readers will notice that Matilda is only seen during the day, while Hans plays tricks at night; a $1,000 reward poster convinces clever Matilda to turn in “Hans” so she can collect the prize. It’s a sly junior mystery with some sparkling moments, but those expecting Matilda might learn her lesson will be disappointed—she plans to go right on being naughty. Ages 3–6. (May)