An often funny read for children and adults alike, but one that feels incomplete.
In author/illustrator Smith’s picture book, a young bunny chafes against the idea that he must always stay clothed.
Preschool-aged Naked Butt, as his name implies, loves being naked. Whenever possible, the youngster strips down to remain cool, comfortable, and unencumbered. He undresses at Lil’ Bun Bun Preschool for Bright Bunnies, at Tots T-ball practice, and at the Whole Carrot grocery store. However, his Momma makes clear that he—like other bunnies—is expected to keep his tail covered. One day, at Gymbunnybounce class, Naked Butt becomes warm, sticky, and sweaty and soon can’t take it anymore. Naked Butt throws off his clothes and runs outside and into a crowd before un unexpected ending. In this comedic tale, Smith presents familiar days in the life of a very young child. The primary-colored illustrations show simple but authentic facial expressions as the protagonist emotionally navigates his world. The book presents just the right amount of suspense before the final twist, which stresses individuality. However, the book ends abruptly and would have benefited from a few more reflections after Momma says, “There’s a time to wear clothes and there is a time to bust out!” Still, Smith’s work has a clear message about being true to oneself.
An often funny read for children and adults alike, but one that feels incomplete.Pub Date: March 21, 2023
ISBN: 9798985779806
Page Count: 34
Publisher: Self
Review Posted Online: Nov. 21, 2022
Review Program: Kirkus Indie
Magnifique! An ideal choice to share before a child’s first sleepover.
Methinks the gastropod doth protest too much.
Grab your pjs, toothbrush, and sleeping bag, because everyone’s favorite snail is inviting you to “a soirée pyjama”! Now starring in a fifth adventure, Escargot is quite the self-described expert on everything sleepover. There are movies to watch and snacks to eat. There’s also one activity that is forbidden: falling asleep! Luckily, Escargot has a foolproof plan to postpone sleep. Anytime readers see the snail starting to drift off, they are to yell, “WAKE UP, ESCARGOT!” As time passes, Escargot begins to fade, but our tiny hero initially refuses to admit defeat: “Probably you were sleeping and you dreamed that Escargot was asleep.” But finally, Escargot capitulates to exhaustion—and perhaps readers will, too, lulled by the sleepy snail’s soothing words: “Let us close our eyes and maybe also our mouths….But first, I must give you a kiss good night. Mwah!” With oversize, Disneyesque eyes and ineffable charm, Escargot is cuteness incarnate, while Slater’s peppy narration is a delight. Consider reading this book at storytime in a French accent. The book includes both familiar French terms and those likely to be new (like doudou for “stuffie”).
Magnifique! An ideal choice to share before a child’s first sleepover. (Picture book. 3-6)Pub Date: April 14, 2026
ISBN: 9780374392291
Page Count: 40
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Review Posted Online: Jan. 19, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 15, 2026
A sweet, tender and charming experience to read aloud or together.
A clueless duckling tries to make a new friend.
He is confused by this peculiar-looking duck, who has a long tail, doesn’t waddle and likes to be alone. No matter how explicitly the creature denies he is a duck and announces that he is a cat, the duckling refuses to acknowledge the facts. When this creature expresses complete lack of interest in playing puddle stomp, the little ducking goes off and plays on his own. But the cat is not without remorse for rejecting an offered friendship. Of course it all ends happily, with the two new friends enjoying each other’s company. Bramsen employs brief sentences and the simplest of rhymes to tell this slight tale. The two heroes are meticulously drawn with endearing, expressive faces and body language, and their feathers and fur appear textured and touchable. Even the detailed tree bark and grass seem three-dimensional. There are single- and double-page spreads, panels surrounded by white space and circular and oval frames, all in a variety of eye-pleasing juxtapositions. While the initial appeal is solidly visual, young readers will get the gentle message that friendship is not something to take for granted but is to be embraced with open arms—or paws and webbed feet.
A sweet, tender and charming experience to read aloud or together. (Picture book. 3-6)Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2013
ISBN: 978-0-375-86990-7
Page Count: 40
Publisher: Random House
Review Posted Online: Nov. 13, 2012
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 1, 2012
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