The Picture Book That I Love

One of my favorite picture books is "Yoko," by Rosemary Wells. I'm not alone; this ranks high with Judy Blume, and with Dwight Garner, the critic for the Times.

Wells understands the concept of high stakes. This is a thriller for children. It's immediately riveting. A little cat brings sushi to school--and her entire class mocks and rejects her. Who, among child-readers, wouldn't immediately relate to (and start worrying about) this cat?

The cat's well-intentioned teacher believes that she can create a "teachable moment" with an International Food Day. Everyone will have to try each dish. But, like so many adult efforts, this one backfires. The dogs and woodland creatures simply continue to avoid the sushi platter.

Here is where things get subversive. If the cat isn't going to convert all the pedestrian minds in her classroom, then how can she find something like a happy ending? The answer is surprising, and it "works"; it feels like something that could really happen in the world.

One of Wells's many gifts is for detail; "Yoko" introduces you (in a funny, effortless way) to the "Learning Corner," the "Kindness Song," the array of little toothpick flags that you can purchase at Party City. Also, Wells does not pander to children. She understands that meanness and stupidity do exist in the world (and any child knows this, as well).

I'm a fan.

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