COUNTDOWN TO SPRING

Spare, bright brushstrokes capture the very essence of spring newly sprouting in a simple countdown from 10 ladybugs to “1 Easter Basket filled with treats for all the animals.” So’s (The Ugly Duckling, 2001, etc.) palette is spring-like without being pale—it has a musical sweetness, with each simply depicted creature expressive and lively among blossoms across a plain white background. Schulman’s (You Read to Me and I’ll Read to You, not reviewed, etc.) very brief text portrays each creature in vivacious spring activity (quacking, scurrying, creeping) and invites counting each one . . . and, at the end: “ ‘Thank you!’ said the happy animals. Now count them all again.” A small gem. (Picture book. 2-5)