Individuality is the order of the day on this farm, where milk production (or lack thereof) depends on the weather.
Each of Ross’ blocky cows has her own personality, but none more so than the hat-and–boot-clad Milly Moo. The trouble is that Milly Moo can’t produce milk. The other cows thrive in the hot weather, using the sun’s heat to produce lots of milk … and making Milly Moo feel even more like an oddball outsider. Even the farmer’s threat to get rid of Milly Moo has no effect, other than to have her dreaming of where milk-less cows might go. But when a sudden storm sends the temperature plummeting, Milly Moo not only produces, she proves just how one-of-a-kind she really is. To her jealous barn-mates, she says, “Don’t be misery moos… / We’re all special!” Ross’ illustrations have a textured feel that digital artwork usually lacks, lending them a rustic look. Browns and grays dominate her cool palette, sometimes making it difficult to differentiate objects. Still, this is a great addition to read-alouds centered on the theme of individuality (with a snack tie-in built right in).
Delightfully different, just like Milly Moo. (Picture book. 3-8)
