MINE!

Two brothers fight over a toy until it tears. After a time-out in their room, they are called to lunch to find that Mom has repaired the toy, which they now angelically agree to share. The text consists of only a few words: “mine,” “lunch,” “yours,” and “ours,” and the occasional “woof” from the dog. The story is actually told through illustrations rendered in oil in very bright kindergarten colors. They feature figures with large, round heads, barrel-shaped bodies, and exaggerated facial expressions. There is no subtlety here. The author’s intent is crystal clear. The book has one purpose only: to teach a lesson about sharing. However, the bright illustrations and simple text are appealing, and may be appreciated by the very youngest readers and their parents. (Picture book. 3-6)