Stella Brings the Family

It's time to celebrate Mother's Day in Stella's class. Everyone has a female parent coming, including Howie, who has two mothers. But Stella is the only kid in her class with two fathers. And while her school is clearly progressive and multicultural, her peers are nonetheless perplexed (even Howie asks, "But who reads you bedtime stories like my mothers do for me?"). When Stella realizes that several people--in addition to her fathers--play maternal roles in her life, the problem is solved, although it does add quite a few folks to the guest list. "For Father's Day," Stella promises her exhausted teacher, "she wouldn't bring nearly as many people." First-time author Schiffer and Clifton-Brown (Big Bouffant) make a great team. The writing is warmhearted but sharply observed, while the winsome artwork--which features a cast of roundheaded, eager-eyed children--it's tightly focused and smartly composed. Much like the TV show Modern Family, this story seems as light as a souffle, but actually offers plenty of food for thought. Ages 5-8. Illustrator's agent: Jodie Hodges, United Agents. (May)

K-Gr 2--Stella is worried. Everybody else in her elementary-school class has a mom--Howie even has two! She has two dads and no one to invite to the upcoming Mother's Day party. The other kids are concerned, too. Who packs her lunch? Who reads her bedtime stories? And what about when she's hurt? When Stella lists the many family members who help her, her friends see an easy solution to the party conundrum: bring them all. Daddy and Papa agree that it's a great idea, but Stella still has misgivings. All her worries turn out to be for nothing, though--the party's a great success, and she's not alone in not having a mom there. Best of all, Father's Day is next, and she's more than set for that. Schiffer's sweet story realistically portrays a child fretting over a worry that adults may not anticipate and having it solved by a loving community and family. Clifton-Brown's bright, detailed watercolors depict a fun classroom, and Stella and friends' arts and crafts. VERDICT A welcome addition for kids from all kinds of families.--Etta Verma, Library Journal