MEEOW AND THE BIG BOX

An ordinary box provides ripe opportunities for a cat and his boundless imagination. Using household objects, Meeow transforms a plain brown carton into a blazing-red fire engine. Clear, bold art supports the direct narration, providing an encouraging explanation through each appropriate page turn: “Meeow is going to cut a hole in the big red box with his scissors. Be careful, Meeow!” The subsequent scene reveals the colorful creation, and the upbeat voice energizes the spare text: “Well done, Meeow!” Braun successfully demonstrates his understanding of his audience’s thirst for fledgling independence as Meeow effectively controls his surroundings. A large font and solid, bright colors carry the fluid digital images. The adorable black feline provides sweetness and spunk. Meeow’s red scarf drapes dramatically across his neck; his wide expressive eyes and tiny pink nose animate each clean spread. Utilizing chairs and teamwork, Meeow returns with his friends for another pleasing adventure in Meeow and the Little Chairs (978-1-906250-88-1). Celebrate the wonders of imaginative play in these solid selections for the toddler set. (Picture book. 1-3)