SOPHIE'S LOVELY LOCKS

Beautiful blonde Sophie loves her luscious locks, though the snarls and tangles prove time-consuming and painful. A bottle of glue and tape seem to be the perfect way to tame her hair until an underwater dip damages her dreamy do. When sticky gum spreads throughout her scalp, Sophie quickly runs to the salon for a radical cut. The focus quickly shifts as she considers the options for her fallen strands, though there is no clear catalyst for her immediate decision. “Give it to a mouse for a warm home? Give it to a bird for a nest? / I know! I’ll donate it to a girl who needs a wig.” Sophie’s bubbly narration reveals no fear or remorse during the process. The stark white background provides a startling contrast to Sophie’s golden tresses, and the receiver of Sophie’s donation bears a striking resemblance to the generous young giver. The occasional use of colorful cursive type pops within the vivid watercolor spreads. The child's cherished relationship with her beloved hair is realistically portrayed, though it’s jarring how random her decision to donate it feels. Sophie’s enthusiastic voice makes her a likable, if rather accidental, ambassador, and an applicable listing of charitable organizations concludes the message, but it’s too bad her act isn’t more intentional. (Picture book. 4-8)