Patrick's Polka-Dot Tights

Patrick, a round-headed kid with orange curls, freckles, and pale skin, loves a particular pair of "perfect and purple" polka-dotted tights. He finds myriad uses for the hosiery--wearing them as insulation under snow pants, transforming them into a leash to walk the dog, complementing a dress as he struts down the catwalk--which causes sibling tension because the tights in question belong to his older sister, Penelope. When Penelope wears the tights and ruins them with an extensive hot fudge sundae stain, Patrick is crushed--until his parents surprise him with a treat from the local superstore. Haley's expressive digital illustrations emphasize different textures and patterns throughout, making Patrick's emotions, and love of colorful stockings, immediate for young readers. McCurry joyfully celebrates one child's carefree clothing creativity while modeling a supportive family alongside realistic sibling interactions. Ages 5-7. (Jan.)

PreS-Gr 2--Patrick, who is white, loves his polka dot tights. With his imagination the possibilities for their use go from the mundane (keeping his toes warm) to the highly creative (his strut down the catwalk/dining room table). Unfortunately, Patrick's tights are actually his sister Penelope's and when they go to the piano recital followed by a disastrous trip to the ice cream parlor, Patrick ends up in a desolate state. All works out well for the young boy who finds a plethora of new opportunities for imaginative play. There is prancing, dancing, strutting, and confidence in every colorful page that accompanies the engaging text. VERDICT A solidly positive purchase. While not focusing on gender or identity issues specifically, this affirming story embraces many forms of self-expression and play.--John Scott, Friends Sch. of Baltimore