Hugs & kisses for the grouchy ladybug

In his trademark collages, Carle welcomes back a classic character whose grumpy mood is evident in her downturned mouth. Other animal friends act out their positive responses to the offer of "hugs and kisses." A green alligator smiles, a blue seal claps its flippers, and giraffes "stand tall." Hugs and kisses make a chameleon blush pink, while a donkey kicks up its heels. All of the animals welcome affection-will the ladybug? On the final two spreads, the ladybug's frown transforms into a gentle smile: "even a grouchy ladybug... needs hugs and kisses too." Readers who don't tend to welcome physical attention, however, especially without consent, may disagree. Ages 4-8. (Dec.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.

Toddler-PreS-Carle brings preschoolers another story about the beloved grouchy critter, first introduced 40 years ago. Readers will see that hugs and kisses make a green alligator smile, a blue seal clap, a brown kangaroo jump for joy, and a gray donkey kick up his heels. A host of other colorful animals react favorably to simple displays of affection. By the end of the story, even the ladybug is smiling after a hug and a kiss. The beautiful collage work is the star of the show as the text is minimal. In true Carle fashion, the book allows for the extension of parent/child discussion as young readers will have a chance to identify animals as well as colors. This is a charming tale that shows how love can move even the grumpiest among us. VERDICT A welcome addition to both the ever-popular Carle collection as well as books for Valentine's Day.-Kristen Todd-Wurm, Middle Country Public Library, NY © Copyright 2019. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.