Community snowman

Kindness and communal collaboration are on full display in Kerbel and Modeweg-Hansen's ebullient picture book, which wordlessly unfolds through loosely inked sketches and comics-style panels. Gleeful scenes open as a brown-skinned child awakens to a window view of a snow-covered city. Having donned warm layers, the youth and a pink-skinned caregiver rush outside to frolic. Attempting to build a snowperson, the child gets swift support from an increasing number of passersby, who readily assist in rolling and lifting the components as well as comedically ornamenting the figure with a dill pickle nose, bagel ears, and a flower arrangement coif. After the crowd, depicted with varying skin tones, cheerfully congratulate one another on successful teamwork, the story shifts focus as the main characters dismantle parts of the snow sculpture for the benefit of a pale-skinned figure who appears underdressed for cold weather, making for an idyllic vision of community care. Ages 3--7. (Oct.)

The neighborhood comes together on a snowy day in this wordless picture book, originally published in Canada. A brown-skinned youngster tumbles out of bed, sees flurries of white from the window, and excitedly rushes outdoors. Soon the child has begun to build a snowman, with other kids joining in to help push the large balls of snow. When they need assistance to lift the head into place, a newcomer--a teenager or perhaps an adult--happily lends a hand. Other grown-ups, wearily trudging through the winter weather, pause at the sight. One by one, each contributes an item: a pickle for the nose, flowers for the hair. The crowd also grows: large, diverse, and loving. Smiles break out and laughter erupts as bagel halves are added for ears and other accessories appear. The final touch is a poppy pin from a veteran (a potentially less familiar detail to a U.S. audience that may get overlooked). Modeweg-Hansen's twitchy lines add movement and joy, while a light blue wash over the sky harkens a slushy, wintry shiver. Luckily, the kindhearted ending envelops readers in warmth, reminding everyone of the happiness that spontaneous community connections can bring. Watching strangers' lives intertwine in unexpected ways is a delight. A cheery tale of a simple, shared winter tradition that connects many hearts.(Picture book. 4-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.