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LULU LAMBY by Karen E. Levy

LULU LAMBY

by Karen E. Levy ; illustrated by Holly Hope

Pub Date: Dec. 14th, 2020
ISBN: 978-0-578-83263-0
Publisher: Self

A small child takes their toy everywhere they go in Levy’s picture book.

An unnamed narrator is annoyed that their 6-year-old brother, Sam, frequently leaves his beloved stuffed lamb, Lulu Lamby, in restaurants and shops, among other places. The text details Sam’s attachment to Lulu and explains how the toy has grown gray and floppy over the years. Although Sam’s mother implores him to stop bringing Lulu everywhere, he refuses; the boy is relieved when his doctor tells him, “Having a lovey is okay.” The narrator goes on to explain how Mom often misplaces her cellphone, too, and Sam realizes that her phone is her own “lovey.” After the boy points this out, the narrator says, “Mom didn’t try quite as hard to get Sam to leave Lulu Lamby at home.” Sam’s attachment to his beloved toy will be very familiar to readers around his age, and the book’s discussion questions will encourage them to think about their own special items. Hope’s colorful, cheerful illustrations simply and sweetly reflect scenarios mentioned throughout the story. The adorable toy lamb is shown in a range of different places, including the beach, a taco truck, and a fire station. The narrator is never shown in the illustrations, and Mom's and Sam’s faces are hidden; the doctor appears light-skinned.

A relatable tale about comfort items for young readers.