OH, TAL! NOT TODAY.

TV actor Anderson presents a picture book about a child who has a unique way of carrying out tasks.

During a “very special day,” Tal does several things that create inconveniences for her parents, such as drawing on her face, creating messes in the kitchen, and disrupting the dirty laundry pile. Throughout, the parents repeat “Oh, Tal! Not today!” But things aren’t as they seem, and it’s soon made clear that Tal did what she did for a reason in the story’s heartwarming conclusion. Anderson, who is autistic and shares her protagonist’s first name, creates a character that many autistic youngsters will find relatable. However, although the book has an affecting message, the plot moves at a very leisurely pace, and younger kids with short attention spans may find it slow going. The book will be best suited to older children who can appreciate its message without the need for a lot of action. White, who is also autistic, offers watercolor illustrations showing a realistic but still colorful and fun family setting; the style is reminiscent of some of the classic picture books that Tal is seen reading in the opening scene. The protagonist and her family are depicted with pale skin, and a party scene features people with a range of skin tones.

An insightful and cute, if rather unhurried, tale of family celebration.