The little forest keepers

Ash and Pudd, two tiny boys, look after their friends in the woods surrounding their cozy, tree-stump home. In winter, they share their food with small creatures and knit hats and mufflers for birds, chipmunks, and squirrels. One cold day, the two brothers notice something big, white, and rounded just over the hill. Cautiously approaching it, they climb to the top, slip on its snowy surface, and, after landing on a carrot just below, realize that the thing has a face. Terrified, they flee but then turn and notice that it looks lonely. They return the next day with a scarf and hat to warm their new neighbor. The writer-illustrator of Cat & Bunny (2015), Lundquist depicts the two brothers as rosy-cheeked boys wearing distinctive red conical hats. The illustrations have a pleasant look, with delicate, curvy lines and gentle colors glowing against the snowy backdrops. The simply written text shapes the story but lets young children discover for themselves that the newcomer is a snowman. A wintry picture book with plenty of visual charm.

Little helping hands make great hearts in this charming tale. Brothers Ash and Pudd, a pair of miniature gnomes, take on the task of caring for all the creatures in the winter forest, and it's hard work. From keeping their animal companions warm with knitted clothes to feeding them, these little forest keepers hustle and bustle from dawn till dusk. However, one day something stops them in their tracks at the edge of the forest--a strange, new, gigantic creature. Terrified, the brothers flee, but they soon feel pity for the newcomer, who appears lonely. With the help of their woodland friends, Ash and Pudd befriend the creature and help it get cozy and warm. Simple and tranquil illustrations, rendered using watercolor, gouache, and pencil, present quaint and fanciful pastoral scenes. While not explicitly touching upon topics of race, ability, or economic status, readers can infer that no matter what we look like, how able we are, or how well-off we happen to be, we can all help each other in times of need. The story also highlights the joy and value of belonging to a supportive community and working together. Ash and Pudd are White. A simple, sweet story about kindness, teamwork, and looking beyond first appearances that can support deeper conversations. (Picture book. 3-6) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.