THE SNOWY DAY

What could go wrong with a day in the snow?

Pip, a male rabbit, and Posy, a female mouse, continue their generally joyful trek through toddlerhood in this simple story of friendship, difference and compromise. Lively and lovable illustrations rendered in ink, watercolor and colored pencil portray the charming pair as they dress for a winter adventure and traverse a nearby park, frolicking, sledding and making snow angels all the way. It’s a fine day out in the snow—until they decide to make a snow creature. Posy wants to create a mouse, while Pip has decided on a rabbit. Anger is felt, snow is thrown, both get cold and soaked, and with no grown-ups around, it’s up to the two to sort out their problems for themselves. Short, clear sentences infused with a childlike sensibility highlight their decisions and show the merits of generosity as well as how a compromise can be reached. While the text can at times be a trifle instructive, it is still inviting and accessible, and the illustrations provide a nice balance. The appealing faces of Pip and Posy, full of genuine emotion, are sure to welcome readers to this world, which is forgiving, warm and cozy despite the snow.

Just the ticket for children who are developing social skills and learning what it is to be a friend.