Let's Go Puddling!

Jump right into this joyful charmer.

Three families with young children, portrayed with various skin tones, look out their windows as rain begins to fall in this picture book; it's time to go "puddling." Adult caregivers help the preschoolers into raincoats and boots so they can splash in puddles together at a nearby playground. While the grown-ups talk under umbrellas, the children hug, jump, and laugh. Perry (This Book Has Alpacas and Bears) writes simple, telegraphic lines full of noise and action: "Stimp,/ stamp,/ stomp!// Umbrellas fly,/ coats flap." External rain-day events add to the experience: a dog shakes itself off, and a drenched cyclist pedals by, creating a "SPLAAASH!" In digital artwork with a watercolor feel, Alexander (The Think-Ups) pays attention to the dramatic sloshes and sprays the children make, until a "humongous" puddle soaks boots, and it's time to go in. Rather than wishing the rain away, these young protagonists find that outside amid the elements is a fine place to play, especially when accompanied by clothes that keep them dry, despite the downpour. It's a child-led adventure with a community focus that ends with everyone warm and dry: "Let's all.../ SNUGGLE!" Ages 2-5. (Apr.)

Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Engaging illustrations, created digitally, show the enthusiasm and joy the children—dressed in vivid orange, royal blue, and pink jackets along with colorful boots—feel as they jump in puddles and run amok. Their antics brighten up the dreary, wet day established in the front endpapers, bolstered by sound effects sprinkled throughout the text. . . a great selection for beginning readers. Readers will get a kick out of watching, and perhaps envying, the children acting like children and getting wet and muddy to their hearts' desire.
—Booklist

Alexander's digital watercolor illustrations make a splash in Perry's picture book full of outdoor rainy entertainment. . . . Caretakers and children will want to grab a warm drink and get comfy on the couch to read this on a rainy day.
—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Emma Perry's ode to puddle-jumping youngsters is nothing less than joyful.
—The Virginian Pilot