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PACIFIER by Alice Le Hénand

PACIFIER

From the Pull and Play series

by Alice Le Hénand ; illustrated by Thierry Bedouet ; translated by Wendeline A. Hardenberg

Pub Date: Feb. 16th, 2021
ISBN: 978-2-40802-461-1
Publisher: Twirl/Chronicle

In this French import, toddler animals are encouraged gently to rethink pacifier use in various settings and situations.

A crocodile parent suggests to their hatchling to leave the pacifier at home so it doesn’t get lost; a kitten learns her speech isn’t clear with the pacifier in her mouth; and a bear cub intent on playtime is ready to throw away the pacifier. These episodes are presented in a combination of simple narration and dialogue between children and parents (there are no other caregiving relationships depicted) who seem to have read all the child-rearing books. A panel on the recto is split in two, and a tab slides out to model the before and after of the child relinquishing the pacifier, with some positive reinforcement at the bottom of the page. The sturdy tabs can be a little stiff, and caregivers may need to assist little ones with pulling. The similar title Sharing follows the same formula and format to demonstrate best-case scenarios around sharing. While these tear-free storylines may be unrealistic, caregivers will appreciate the constructive approaches modeled. Bedouet presents cartoon animals with rounded lines against solid backgrounds; there are no sharp edges in either the narratives or the art. In both titles, families represented are crocodiles, kangaroos, monkeys, bears, and cats.

These age-appropriate, everyday dramas will promote effective problem-solving.

(Novelty board book. 1-4)