With arms firmly crossed and a heavy frown upon her forehead, Beth clearly broadcasts to her family that she is not having a good day. Unlike Judith Viorst’s classic Alexander, Beth does not face one disappointment after another. Instead, Beth’s many relatives try their best to make her smile. Silly Grandma tries a monkey finger puppet but it just results in Beth’s lower lip sticking out further. Silly Auntie Bea plays dress-up with Beth, who merely folds her arms and taps her foot in irritation. After all of her other relatives fail to make Beth feel better, big sister Ann saves the day by pretending to look as cross as Beth. Making crabby faces at each other makes the girls dissolve into giggles and then share a hug. Illustrations are colorful, straightforward yet evocative, and should attract toddlers. Interesting uses of perspective enhance the isolation Beth feels. This simple but effective story is sure to perk up sulky children and perhaps give parents a new coping skill. (Picture book. 3-5)
