Conflicts and Resolutions

More can’t-miss lessons for life.            Little Rabbit and the Meanest Mother on Earth

By Kate Klise

Illustrated by M. Sarah Klise

Best for: Ages 4-8

The circus is in town, and Little Rabbit wants to go. But his mother won’t let him until his room is clean. Kate Klise uses Little Rabbit and his mother to explore the relationship between mother and child. Although this isn’t a new release, you could easily have missed it—and you’d be sorry if that happened. By the end of the tale, the tables have been turned on Little Rabbit, and his room is declared the messiest place on Earth. As Little Rabbit snuggles under his homemade tent in the middle of his clean room, he sees that his mother isn’t so mean after all.

What’s good: The mother saves the day, and children will laugh about it.

What’s bad: Little Rabbit sets a bad example by sneaking out of his house.

            Mustache Baby Meets His Match

By Bridget HeosIllustrated by Joy AngBest for: Ages 4-8

                         There’s a new kid in town, and it looks like a showdown. When Billy, the mustache baby, is joined on a playdate by Javier, the bearded boy, an action-packed adventure begins. The boys square off in a magic show, tricycle race and presidential debate. Javier wins them all, and Billy grows frustrated. Before long, the two are in a wrestling match, and it takes a mother’s voice of reason to settle things down. Once the boys understand competitiveness is okay as long as it doesn’t go too far, they become best friends.

What’s good: Vibrant and humorous illustrations feature ever-changing facial hair.

What’s bad: Not a thing in this one!

            Everybody Sleeps (But Not Fred)

By Josh Schneider

Best for: Ages 3-8

Some nights it can be difficult to fall asleep. Fred, however, has too many things to do to even try. On his list he has jumping and shouting and horn testing, among other things. Schneider tells how animals around the world slumber, then contrasts that with Fred’s exploits. Each spread progressively features animals from the previous spreads. This bit adds humor and interest for young readers. In the end Fred curls up with a sheep, and Schneider brings readers into the story by telling them to close the book and let Fred sleep.

What’s good: Progressive illustrations that keep the attention of young readers.

What’s bad:  Children may want to test out some of Fred’s anti-sleep ideas.