Mallat illustrates a family’s expression of love and pride through a series of scenes denoting the confidence and security of young wolf cubs as their nurturing and patient papa wolf guides them. Full-page oil pastels in muted dark colors of the natural terrain beautifully paint the family’s active day of learning and play as papa teaches skills for swimming, hunting and basic survival concluding with a protective nighttime embrace. As Papa displays his pleasure in a howl of joy, the cubs are equally happy and assured in the security of learning from and relying on a doting, caring parent. “Papa is our pride and joy, / the one that we adore. / He’s everything we want to be, / and ever so much more.” A lovely study of animal habits paralleling concepts of parental devotion and praise for any family. Good nature storytime choice. (Picture book. 2-4)
