Ploof (Ploof #1)

In this interactive picture book, Clanton and Chou Musser give readers a chance to practice empathic responses through engagement with an emotive cloud named Ploof. “This is Ploof. Ploof is feeling lonely. Can you say hello?” beginning lines encourage, and a page turn reveals that “Yay! Ploof is happy to see you.” Other prompts request help in supporting Ploof through a momentary bout of shyness and in cheering the cloud when its raindrop-like tears start to fall. As the playful cloud morphs shapes, amid other activities, it emits phrases including “Oof!” and “Whoosh!” Following a playful game of hide-and-go-seek, the literary playdate comes to a close with a high-five, a wave, and a hug. “Thanks for being such a fantastic friend,” the narrator models. Powdered graphite, eraser, and pencil artwork employs sky-blue digital coloring in this friendly volume that makes social interaction look easy. Ages 2–5. (Sept.)