A celebration of a dad's return. A young squirrel announces to his mother, “My dad is coming home soon, / And with just five hours to go, / I’m planning for a big surprise. / He’s the best dad I know!” Glass’ sing-song text alternates between a countdown of the hours until father returns and detailed descriptions of all the wonderful things he and his dad do together. As the little squirrel industriously works on a surprise gift for daddy, watchful mother squirrel is nearby preparing a cake for the upcoming celebration. It all adds up to a warm portrait of a loving family that shares traditional activities at the pool, the barbershop and at home. Moore’s soft, bright watercolor-and-ink illustrations help round out what is stated in the rhyming quatrains. At five o’clock sharp, dad is home to enjoy his family and be awarded, as per the title, a special glittered-and-glued blue ribbon. (A fun extra: Readers are invited to punch out the provided blue ribbon at the back of the book.) It's a little hard to tell whether this dad has been away on a trip or is just coming home from work, which keeps this book from packing much emotional punch. This sweet but not special title is fine to share for Father’s Day or when a daddy is about to return from a trip. (Picture book. 3-5)
