In the latest of the Just Being Me series, a preschooler asserts his independence and dresses himself for his Grandpa’s birthday party. While the young hero may feel most comfortable wearing only his blue underwear and one striped sock, it’s snowing outside. (No mention is made of the fact that underwear is not appropriate attire for a party.) His parents help him get dressed for the outdoors. But when there’s a delay in leaving, he grows too hot and strips again. Now they’ll be late if he doesn’t get dressed quickly, and their efforts to dress him are met with resistance. The results are humorous and wildly unconventional, but effective at keeping out the cold snow, so the parents accept his appearance—and thereby his independence—and they go to the party. Hollander’s brightly colored illustrations will tickle readers as the boy attempts to find his own look while appeasing his parents. The “What’s Going On” section explains to parents their child’s developmental stage and how they can best support him/her. A fun look at the battle most often waged between preschoolers and their parents. (Picture book. 2-4)
