Review by Kirkus Book Review
A friendship is tested over misplaced blame. Boo, a bright blue elephant, adores his brand-new red boots. BFF Cedric, a crocodile, wants to play outside, but Boo doesn't want to get his boots dirty. He dramatically declares, "I won't be playing outside anymore." So Cedric goes to the park without Boo. But Boo doesn't want to miss the fun. Tentatively taking a step outside, he thinks, "Perhaps going outside in my new boots would be OK after all." As expected, Boo's boots get muddy. He pouts and wants to go home. Luckily, Cedric's route takes them through a big puddle. Boo's boots are shiny again! Boo engages in some self-reflection: "I'm sorry I was mad at you, Cedric. It wasn't your fault my boots got muddy." Hopgood explores toddlers' tendency to cast blame on others; he also follows through with guidance on how to apologize. Bright colors against an uncluttered backdrop, with a hint of paint splatter, boost the energy. Cedric and Boo are a delightful pair, helping little ones make sense of big emotions. Simple social and emotional storytelling for the youngest of readers.(Board book. 2-5) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
