Let’s Go Puddling!

Three families with young children, portrayed with various skin tones, look out their windows as rain begins to fall in this picture book; it’s time to go “puddling.” Adult caregivers help the preschoolers into raincoats and boots so they can splash in puddles together at a nearby playground. While the grown-ups talk under umbrellas, the children hug, jump, and laugh. Perry (This Book Has Alpacas and Bears) writes simple, telegraphic lines full of noise and action: “Stimp,/ stamp,/ stomp!// Umbrellas fly,/ coats flap.” External rain-day events add to the experience: a dog shakes itself off, and a drenched cyclist pedals by, creating a “SPLAAASH!” In digital artwork with a watercolor feel, Alexander (The Think-Ups) pays attention to the dramatic sloshes and sprays the children make, until a “humongous” puddle soaks boots, and it’s time to go in. Rather than wishing the rain away, these young protagonists find that outside amid the elements is a fine place to play, especially when accompanied by clothes that keep them dry, despite the downpour. It’s a child-led adventure with a community focus that ends with everyone warm and dry: “Let’s all.../ SNUGGLE!” Ages 2–5. (Apr.)