Lulu, a very young mouse, has the best mama and papa in the world and a pet ladybug named Lili-poo. She completely adores her soft, sweet-smelling pajamas and decides to wear them to school one day. Of course, they finish the day dusty and covered with glue drops and finger paints and all the elements of her colorful lunch. Now they are not so soft, and they are definitely not sweet-smelling. Lulu’s parents are understanding and successfully treat her obsession with good humor and imagination. Lulu tells her story in the absolutely true voice of a four- or five-year-old. Gay’s translation from French captures the essence of the work without sacrificing an easy flow of English. Jorisch’s lively watercolors are positioned for maximum effect. Surrounded by white margins and framed within double lines, they beautifully complement and enhance the text. Young readers will be entranced with Lulu. A charmer. (Picture book. 3-7)
