BubbleCat vs. DragonBear (BubbleCat)

Fragile BubbleCat, of Instagram fame, learns to take risks in this quirky offering from Charmatz. Narrated by BubbleCat and accompanied by dialogue in speech balloons, the book—whose illustrations combine photographs and digital art, resulting in an animation-like vibe—opens with the bipedal translucent blue cat explaining, “There are so many things that could poke me, so I only ever stick to the safest path.” When the cautious kitty, out for a walk, inadvertently angers spiky DragonBear (depicted with thorns, twigs, and sycamore pods), fireballs fly and a chase ensues until, on the edge of a cliff, the delicate feline discovers an unexpected strength, just in time. Charmatz’s straightforward story delivers a familiar take on overcoming fear and taking chances, with a visually funny twist. Ages 4–8. (Mar.)