HURTY FEELINGS

Fragility is a hippo and as such, she is “a solid piece of work,” but her feelings are as soft as tofu. A rude comment would sink her faster than a couple pair of cement boots, but she also could read insults in a compliment: “Nice? Do you know what else is nice? Cupcakes are nice. So you’re comparing me to a squishy cupcake.” Boo-hoo. Such a delicate flower comes across as delightfully mirthful in Lester’s tale, though not the consequences of her behavior: The other animals avoid her. Then one day—out of nowhere, really, and it’s not the story’s strong suit—Fragility stands up to the insults of an elephant, who threatens their ball game, without nervous collapse. Fortunately, Munsinger’s illustrations prop up this teetery tale with a brace of good cheer and well-tempered comedy. (Picture book. 4-8)