Me and You

September 1, 2009
PreS-KA rabbit and a pig decide they want to trade places with one another, so they use art supplies and other items at hand to transform themselves accordingly. The layout and text will help audiences keep track of who's who as the changes occur. The rabbit is always on the left side of the spread, and the pig, on the right. Each character also speaks in a distinctive typeface. These design elements underscore the story's theme that differences are what make us unique and special. Children will identify with the animals' playful, imaginative antics. For example, the rabbit covers the tips of its long ears with socks so she will resemble the pig. Meanwhile, the pig puts a pair of tights on its head so it can have long, floppy ears. Fans of dress up and creative play, especially, will relate to the story. Moreover, the mixed-media artwork evokes children's drawings and paintings. Black lines around the figures resemble crayon strokes. Broad brushstrokes also recall the vigorous efforts of young artists. Text and illustrations effectively collaborate to create a cozy, cheerful book. A welcome addition with broad appeal."Mary Landrum, Lexington Public Library, KY"

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2010
Two friends, a pig and a rabbit, playfully act out what it would be like to be each other. They change their colors with paint, their ear shapes with socks and tights, and even their personalities before concluding, in light rhyme, that they should just be themselves. Mixed-media illustrations loosely outlined in black enhance the simple, good-natured exchange between best friends.

(Copyright 2010 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)