READY FOR ANYTHING

Optimism prevails in this gentle read. When fun-loving Duck invites anxious Raccoon on a picnic, he panics. Raccoon imagines the most outrageous situations: They could be chased by killer bees or caught in a turbulent thunderstorm. Though Duck is initially worried, he counters every perceived disaster in turn. After all, there may be butterflies, a lovely swim and a light breeze instead. Raccoon gains security through extreme preparation and eventually saves their picnic plans. The dialogue nicely balances the pair’s interactions, focusing equally on each character. Spare language charts Raccoon’s heartfelt progression as the two encourage each another: “Your what-ifs are wonderful, Duck.” Gouache cartoons display the animals’ expressive emotions; their half-hidden faces peek from the bottom of the page as they imagine potential outcomes. Dynamic illustrations extend the humor throughout: While Raccoon imagines a fire-breathing dragon, Duck describes a baby dragon, holding a teddy in his arm. Bring along your picnic basket for this one. (Picture book. 3-7)