Review by Kirkus Book Review
When a storm of biblical proportions looms, who will help Noah? Noah gathers the animals together to announce that "a big rain is coming" and that he'll build an ark for their safety. Lionel, a diminutive hedgehog, immediately offers his assistance. Noah dismisses Lionel (he's too small to help, Noah claims) and says that he'll seek help from the bears. Next morning, Noah doesn't know how to alert the animals who live far away. "Already taken care of!" declares Lionel. Dolores, his hedgehog partner, sent them invitations. And so it goes: Noah repeatedly rejects help from Lionel and Dolores--sort of party planners/cruise directors. Happily, some animals pitch in with the ark building, but the labor doesn't make them forget they're hungry predators. Guess who forestalls that crisis--and also prevents the ark from overturning in giant waves? When the rain finally stops and the ark reaches dry land, Noah admits the hedgehogs have saved the day, sending readers the important message that even the smallest of creatures can be a huge help, especially when friends are in a jam. This new take on the Noah story will be welcome to those familiar with the tale and newcomers alike for its freshness and flashes of modern humor, particularly in the colorful, rollicking illustrations. All characters are expressive. Noah is light-skinned. Proof that well-meant help, whether in big or small doses, is always appreciated, rain or shine. (Picture book. 4-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
