My Barefoot Book of Wonderful Words

Inviting acrylic-and-pencil cartoons introduce more than 700 words within the context of such familiar environments as a park, library, and market. A spread featuring the people and businesses on a busy street precedes one devoted to various professions: “Sam wants to be a chef. What do you want to be when you grow up?” Tiny portraits of dozens of workers include a bus driver, artist, reporter, and arborist. Later, the park scene leads to an overview of emotions: “Everyone in the park looks happy and relaxed. How do you think these children feel?” A friendly and diverse cast of characters helps create a book with broad appeal, as well as plentiful whimsical details to examine. Ages 2–6. (Sept.)