The Day We Got Lost

A tale readers will easily get lost in.

An ultimately cozy portrayal of a day that begins as memorable for the wrong reasons, only to end with Smudge\'s loved ones learning to find their way--together.

PreS-Gr 2--Smudge's family packs up the car and drives to the mountains for a picnic and a day in the great outdoors. His grandpa tells them that moss grows on the north side of trees and cautions him to stay on the trail because the paths are marked with trail markers and stones, but Smudge is a busy, playful child and moves the rocks as he frolics through the woods. He does not need markers, he claims. He is an explorer. Smudge ventures far away. It is not until he hears animals snorting and snuffling in the undergrowth that Smudge becomes afraid and realizes he is lost and alone. As fear sets in, Smudge tries to retrace his steps, but he is lucky his family is looking for him, too. When they reach each other, Mama, Grandpa, and Smudge work together to find the right path out of their predicament. Following the moss on the trees just as Grandpa taught them, they make their way back to the clearing and to where they left their car. Being lost isn't such a bad thing after all, if they are lost together. Pray uses subtle watercolors and colored pencils to capture the beauty of the surroundings and the facial expressions of each character. Smudge is shown as a brave adventurer and a bit of a troublemaker. Baby Willa appears sweet and angelic, and Oni the dog is playful and joyous. VERDICT An additional purchase, this is nevertheless a sweet book celebrating family, togetherness, belonging, and love.--Pamela Thompson McLeod

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Praise for Perfectly Imperfect Mira:

The multiracial cast of children is full of energy and their physically expressive activities are captivating. A sweet celebration of the growth mindset. —Kirkus Reviews

Give this book to perfectionists or to those who feel too anxious to try new things. —Horn Book

Text and image work in fluid harmony in this sensitive picture book about overcoming perfectionism. —Publishers Weekly

This engaging story provides an inspiring insight into children\'s feelings and the growth of confidence. Pair with similar stories by Peter H. Reynolds including The Dot, Ish, and Sky Color. —School Library Journal

Praise for The Day We Got Lost:

This high-spirited story is notable for its portrayal of loving and very realistic family dynamics.... A tale readers will easily get lost in. —Kirkus Reviews

A sweet book celebrating family, togetherness, belonging, and love.—School Library Journal

Pray depicts the group\'s less-united moments with empathy instead of judgment.... An ultimately cozy portrayal of a day that begins as memorable for the wrong reasons, only to end with Smudge\'s loved ones learning to find their way—together. — Horn Book