OH NO, OJÓ!

A budding young artist must find a way to develop his gift without driving his family up the wall.

Little Ojó loves to draw, but stealing his big sister Oge’s school pencils isn’t the best way to do it, since she needs them for her homework. A gift of markers from Papa opens up new possibilities for his artistic talents, but he draws the ire of his family, who would prefer that he not mark up today’s newspaper or the grocery list. When Ojó scribbles all over his bedsheet, Oge tries to help by washing it, but Mama angrily confiscates the markers. Ever resourceful, Ojó draws in the dirt with a stick brought by his loyal dog, Tutu, but his creations don’t survive a sudden rainfall. Can the entire family come up with a solution that will keep their home and possessions safe while allowing Ojó to make the world a more beautiful place? Nigerian author/illustrator Ònájìn’s colorful digital images and simple sentence structure (marked by a refrain of “Oh no, Ojó!”) bring to life a story about the highs and lows of the artistic process. Every member of Ojó’s family has delightful, memorable expressions, especially the alternately indignant and caring Oge. All characters present Black, and visuals imply an African setting.

Charming and sweet.