Itsy bitsy spider

PreS-Gr 1--This title creates an expanded insect universe for the classic "Itsy Bitsy Spider" rhyme. Cabrera teases out the basic premise of a spider climbing up the waterspout, adding drama beyond the endless climbing up and whooshing down. This spider is not alone, but has an entire cadre of bug pals with whom he wants to share the sheer joy of playing in his exhilarating water world. When not everyone can--many bugs are fragile, after all--they must brainstorm to come up with a new idea. With these fresh additions, the basic story extends to teach about emotional resilience, helping friends, and finding fun in the most unexpected places. VERDICT An adorable update to nursery rhyme classics, with bright illustrations and joyful rhythms.

A smiling arachnid surfs a drainpipe surge. The fuzzy, chunky, charcoal-gray spider's admiring audience gathers: A pastel-pink-striped worm peers curiously, while an adult and child beetle look on as they shelter from the rain under a red-and-white-spotted mushroom. More friends arrive, among them a blue-shelled snail and a ladybug, and the gleeful Itsy Bitsy Spider invites them all to join in the fun. But after they sensibly realize that this is a potentially perilous game and decline, Itsy Bitsy becomes sad. Admirably sensitive to their friend's feelings, the critters "put their heads together" and cleverly adapt a leaf to serve as an "Itsy Bitsy boat." Not only can they all have fun together, but their collective creative powers also lead to the surprise appearance of a Bug Water Park, with a long spiral slide and other pleasures. A rainbow collection of pastel flowers and gigantic mushrooms forms a pleasing backdrop in this close-up garden excursion. Cabrera employs a naïve style, with thin layers of color. There's no shortage of versions of this nursery rhyme, but Cabrera's choice to build on the story, the themes of kindness and inclusion, and the delightful, kid-friendly art make this one special. It's a strong read-aloud option, with illustrations that will show well at a distance for classroom or library audiences--and the titular spider's so fetching that even avowed arachnophobes will change their tune. Blends appealing art with gentle rhymes for storytime magic.(Picture book. 2-5) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.