Sprout Branches Out

Von Innerebner humorously presents the punny story of a potted sprig with forest-size ambitions in this grow-where-you’re-planted story. Frustrated that she’s only grown two leaves, small-town Sprout offers reasons as to why she’s failing to thrive: “It’s not wild enough here! I should be in the woods where it’s SO wild, I’d grow leaves on my chest.” Inspired by a travel brochure, Sprout sets off for new canopies (“Seed ya later!”). After a wild wood proves too scary, a “tall, wise forest” too advanced, and a rainforest-like jungle too damp, Sprout finally concludes that there’s no place like home. Awash in bright shades of green, unlined digital artwork animates its foliage with friendly faces that frequently pipe up (“You grow, girl!” and “I’m an unbe-leaf-able listener”). It’s a lightweight, wordplay-forward adventure for budding sprouts. Ages 3–6. (Jan.)