Mazer successfully ventures into the picture-book arena with the same keen understanding that she brings to her tales for older readers. The lively preschool romp details a father and daughter’s ritual game of hide-and-seek, as the title becomes the father’s refrain while searching for his mischievous tot. Mazer skillfully taps into the reservoir of silliness that the three-to-six-year-old set adore. The father’s silly searches are bound to elicit giggles as he combs his hair and shakes out his socks in his quest to discover Emily’s whereabouts. As all tots are wont to do, Emily reaches the point where she cannot bear to be undiscovered any longer and reveals herself with a stomp and a roar. Davenier’s lighthearted illustrations deftly capture the playfulness of the tale as she depicts a gleeful Emily inexpertly hidden in each spread. Readers will enjoy studying the watercolor illustrations for glimpses of Emily as much as they will enjoy the concept of the story. (Picture book. 3-6)
