DEAR MOM

A tiger cub finds a dozen ways to praise Mom.

Floating in a pond on an inflatable flamingo, shade-wearing Mom is “the coolest.” Winding through a forest and meadow, on a tandem with her youngster (both wearing helmets), Mom is “brightest, the best!” “No one dances like you!” exclaims the cub as Mom grooves in a pair of rollerblades. When Mom spots her youngster in a too-big floppy hat and boots, she giggles: “No one laughs like you.” Bearing an oversize bouquet that dwarfs the cub, the little tiger delivers an even bigger accolade: “You are the most special lady…IN THE WORLD!” As they stargaze together, the cub amends that praise: “IN THE UNIVERSE!” Best of all, Mom is always there for her little one, “when I’m having the BEST day” (one that involves an eight-scoop ice cream cone) and “when I’m having the WORST day”—the cone topples, and rain ends the outing, but Mom is there with an umbrella. When the little one is feeling blue, Mom’s warm hugs (and cookies) “turn things around.” It all ends with an exuberant “I LOVE YOU!” If there’s nothing too surprising here, these activities and the ideal sentiments expressed are nevertheless utterly sweet; soft sherbet colors, spare backgrounds, and large clear lettering will appeal to a young audience.

A heartfelt love note to a very gentle tiger mom.