So Cozy by Lerryn Korda (Somerville, Mass., Candlewick Press) $18
The title accurately describes the tone of this riff on the beloved folktale about a lost mitten which becomes home to a group of forest creatures.
Here, the setting is more domestic as Dog discovers the attractions his bed holds for some animals who are determined to help him enjoy his nap in its fuzzy comfort. Dog is good-natured and initially accepts the arrival of Goose and Cat. After the rabbits arrive it is clear that space is at a premium and the level of activity precludes any thought of quiet snoozing. Cat licks his fur, the bunnies hop around and Goose indulges in some preening!
Dog's attitude becomes somewhat less welcoming after Mommy and Baby Bear arrive and he is downright grumpy by the time the larger animals arrive and squeeze him up to the top of the heap. This arrangement ends abruptly with the arrival of Mouse who inadvertently tickles Elephant's trunk. Elephant's tremendous sneeze blows everyone out of the bed leaving Dog contemplating the ensuing quiet until Mouse creeps back to make a just-right twosome.
Korda hits exactly the right note in this picture book. Her mischievous characters romp through the pastel pages and can't wait to snuggle. The repetitive refrain and minimal text make this a perfect book to share with very young children.
Fran Ashdown was the children's librarian at the Capilano Branch of the North Vancouver District Public Library. She often finds herself shifted to the edge of the bed by two snoozing cats. For more information check your local libraries.
