In an ebullient burst of playful language, Carlstrom’s tale whisks readers through a youngster’s Monday routine. From the first glimmer of sunlight that awakens Sammy, to a raucous recounting of his preschool experiences, fanciful rhyming word pairs frolic across the pages, entreating readers to join in the fun. A fast-paced tempo combines with tongue-twisting verses for a read-aloud format that is perfect for preschooler participation: “Clomp-stomp, clomp-stomp / Noisily we’re marching / Clashing, click-sticks / Pounding on the drum / Sing it, ring it / Monday moning music.” Sweet’s buoyant illustrations reflect the vivaciousness of the verses. Cartoon-style drawings come in an array of vibrant colors; tangerine orange walls complement the lemon bright floors in Sammy’s kitchen, while Sammy wears eye-catching primary hues of red and blue. This boisterous tale is just the thing to chase away the doldrums and start Monday, or any other day, with a bang. (Picture book. 2-5)
