WEATHER

Two youngsters learn about weather and the clothing it requires in this simple introduction that launches the Hello, World! series.

On alternating pages, each child looks out a window to identify the weather, and, on the following double-page spread, the same child chooses appropriate apparel. This duo, one a light-brown–skinned child with pigtails and the other a white kid with short hair, walks young readers through the seasons in McDonald’s jewel-toned cartoons that appear to use collage and watercolor. Written as simple questions and answers, this format provides just enough information for curious toddlers. Solar System, a companion title also by McDonald, is less successful. While her playful style is a perfect fit for young weather watchers, stargazers may be more confused than edified. Some of the planets are difficult to identify without the text, Saturn’s rings are oddly stylized, and a comet looks more like a fish than a celestial body.

While McDonald’s art is delightful and the Hello, World! series appears to be promising, she should stick to topics that are close to home.