Good job, George!

We are all capable of growth--just ask former baby and now "big boy" George, portrayed with light brown skin. As a toddler, George pulled the dog's tail and engaged in "throwing food and mushing it on my face"; now, though, he's the "best helper," and even knows how to share in the sandbox. Affirming George's maturity trajectory are his parents, who praise every positive effort with the titular exclamation (his mother "claps so hard her hands must hurt," the child observes). But even super helpers can have setbacks, and through a series of ill-considered actions, George wrecks a nearly finished home improvement project, splattering paint on the room, the dog, and himself. This time, Mom and Dad "do not say, 'Good job, George,' and they are not clapping." But the story is quickly buoyed when the protagonist acknowledges his mistake and helps clean up. With warmhearted cartooning and winks at everyday domestic comedy (including a streaking vignette of "baby" George), O'Connor (the Fancy Nancy series) and Joyner (Love Was Inside) ground their story in a loving environment and reassure readers that praise isn't empty words; on the contrary, positive reinforcement can help kids strive to be their best selves. Ages 3--6. (Mar.)

PreS-K--The author of the extremely popular "Fancy Nancy" series introduces readers to a delightful new character in this charming book. George, a mixed-race boy with tan skin and black hair, narrates. He delights in helping out. He buckles the straps in his stroller; feeds the family dog, Pogo; and shares his sandbox toys with a younger child. When he completes a small task or takes a risk, such as coming down the slide by himself, his parents always say, "Good job, George!" Things unfortunately go awry when George helps finish painting a room and realizes that he does not quite always do the right thing. All is well in the end, however, when George helps give Pogo a bath and earns another hearty "Good job, George!" Joyner's colorful and expressive illustrations echo the style of the original Curious George books by H. A. Rey. A scene at a playground features a multiethnic crowd of adults and children. VERDICT This sweet story with its message of encouragement and empowerment is perfect for the toddler and preschool set.--Sue Morgan, Hillsborough City S. D., CA