by Chris Haughton (Author) Chris Haughton (Illustrator)
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Three hunters with nets trudge through a deep forest of violets and blues, their wide eyes unblinking in the gloom. They're comically small and troll-like, and they're trailed by a fourth companion who's even stumpier. The hunters spot an exquisite scarlet bird. "Hello, birdie," says the smallest hunter, prompting hushes from his companions, who tell him, "We have a plan." The three hunters tiptoe forward, nets ready, but fall over each other like the Keystone Kops when they pounce. The bird sails off, undisturbed, and the pattern of greeting, hushing, and pouncing repeats with equally slapstick results. Big, blocky shapes and intense hues make the action simple to follow, and Haughton's (Oh No, George!) text is similarly telegraphic. Eventually, the bird flies toward the littlest hunter after being offered a bit of bread, a flock of phantasmagorically colored birds gathers, and the hunters get their comeuppance. The delicious stupidity of the hunting trio, the purity of heart of their small companion, and the sweet-tempered drama of each page turn make this a classic exercise in picture-book making. Ages 3-7. (Sept.)
Copyright 2014 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.PreS-Gr 2--In a gorgeous nocturnal landscape of deep purples and blues, four figures go marching along. The three big ones are holding nets, and the little one trails slightly behind. Suddenly, they spy a bright pink bird in the tree. "Hello, birdie," calls the little one. "Shh," reprimands the first one. "SHH!" hisses the next. "We have a plan," explains the third, holding up a birdcage. They tiptoe towards the bird with hilariously expressive body language until, "ready one...ready two...ready three...GO!" But the bird easily evades them, and the three end up in a tangle while the little one looks on. The scenario and "shhs" repeat, and finally, while the big ones are literally down the creek without a paddle, the little one makes friends. In a breathtakingly rich spread, a flock of colorful, jewel-toned birds appear and drive the schemers into retreat. Echoing the opening, the big ones quick-step along under the moonlit sky, nervously glancing behind them and dragging the little one along. The story seems over, but they haven't quite learned their lesson yet. A masterful delight, this crafty caper has huge kid appeal and a title/refrain that will easily sneak into the family lexicon: shh! We have a plan. This perfect blend of circular narrative, deceptively spare art, and humor becomes a story that kids will want to read at storytime, at home, and to themselves if no adult is handy. Plan to make this title a first purchase.--Anna Haase Krueger, Ramsey County Library, MN
Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.