William Wakes Up

PreS-Gr 1--A silly and joyful celebration of spring and friendship. It's finally spring, and although William is up and ready to move, his four animal friends are feeling a little more lethargic. One by one, and with much coaxing and pleading from William, they slowly roll out of bed and join the preparation, until finally, just one friend remains. With not much time remaining before their special guest arrives, the other animals are feeling slightly miffed at raccoon's reluctance to help out. Will they be ready for their special guest? And will they share the fruits of their labor with their one reluctant companion? Warm, delicate pencil illustrations are a perfect complement to the sweet rhyming text. The repeating refrain and the animal countdown add much appeal to this as a group read-aloud choice. Reminiscent of the "Little Red Hen," this is a great book to encourage helping and sharing or for any child who isn't feeling quite ready to emerge into a bright new spring. VERDICT Purchase for fans of the author's William's Winter Nap or pair it with any one of the "Bear" books by Karma Wilson for a fun and raucous storytime.--Laken Hottle, Providence Community Library