Bravo, Avocado!

PreS-Gr 2--An adorable avocado longs to be a Daily Special in this fun, pun-filled story from Stiefel. Set in a cheery, colorful farmer's market, affable Avocado sees all the descriptive signs around her--Zesty Lemons! Juicy Peaches!--and sets off on a quest to discover what would make her a Daily Special, too. Her friends all have suggestions: Tomato suggests salsa lessons, Olive and Vinegar think she just needs some dressing, but they're all missing the mark. Toaster comes to the rescue by inviting Avocado to peer at herself in Toaster's shiny surface, letting Avocado see her wonderful characteristics. Bolstered by her friends, Avocado writes her own Daily Special sign--and helps another friend struggling with their image. Punny humor makes this a read-aloud choice that parents and kids alike will enjoy, and Suessbauer's bright, bold artwork featuring a friendly and expressive cast of foodstuffs will delight readers. End papers feature a charming cast of characters to greet readers when they open the book. VERDICT An enjoyable story about friendship and positive self-image, this is one to consider for picture book collections.--Rosemary Kiladitis

A food-based frolic focused on acceptance. Noticing a sign for "Today's Specials" at the farmers market, Avocado longs to be special, too, and tries to discover what sets her apart. She attempts dancing lessons with Tomato, pulling funny faces with Pumpkin, and even a makeover, but nothing works. When Avocado cries out in exasperation, she summons none other than Toaster, who tells Avocado to look in the mirror and find what about her is already special. It works, and Avocado scrawls a sign with all her good points, such as her bravery and generosity, all for the low price of $1. Given that the goal is purchase and consumption, Avocado's mission, taken to its logical conclusion, feels a bit off. (Fortunately, while human legs and hands of varied skin tones travel across the pages, no foods ever leave the story for a shopper's basket.) Attentive readers may wish all the characters sought acceptance for their own community gain instead of for sales appeal. Still, those able to detach from this subtext will enjoy the ride and find conversation starters about self-worth. Bright, chunky art has wide appeal, and the rampant food puns will entertain adults even if they are lost on children. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Well intentioned though slightly off-kilter in its messaging. (Picture book. 4-6) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.