The Perfect Plan

Perfectly lovely. (Picture book. 4-9)

Copyright 2021 Kirkus Reviews, LLC Used with Permission.

Inspired by animals' cozy forest homes, a child called Maya carefully plans to construct a tree fort of her own. Gilbert (A Couch for Llama) draws Maya with a perfectly round head, light skin and dark braids, a plaid shirt, and an eager look. But when she hikes into the forest and starts to build, she can't seem to fashion the branches into a structure. "What if I just can't do it? she wondered." So she approaches some beavers--creatures she knows have experience with trees. They're happy to help, as are a moose and a bear family she appeals to. "We're building the most beautiful and unique tree fort in the world!" she says to some birds. "Will you help us?" Foul weather represents a single tense moment before Maya can enjoy the dazzling tree fort she's built alongside the community that helped her do it. Polished digital artwork portrays the animals and the forest in stylized, easy-to-recognize forms accented by golden light. Though the animals lack individuating characteristics, lessons about persistence and teamwork are clear as Maya and friends exemplify cheerful energy, cooperation, and focus. Ages 3-6. Agent: Clelia Gore, Martin Literary. (July)

Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

"The lustrous illustrations have a beautiful sense of light . . . . [Maya] is a strong, independent female and a complete charmer. Perfectly lovely." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"The beauty and mystery of the forest invites and enchants in this story about how working together can create something more beautiful than anyone could accomplish alone." —Foreword Reviews, starred review

"This fun read is guaranteed to put a spring in any reader's step." —Booklist on A COUCH FOR LLAMA

"The llama is endearing, and his curiosity and playfulness shine. . . . will appeal to a broad audience." —Kirkus Reviews on A COUCH FOR LLAMA

"Polished digital artwork portrays the animals and the forest in stylized, easy-to-recognize forms accented by golden light . . . . Lessons about persistence and teamwork are clear as Maya and friends exemplify cheerful energy, cooperation, and focus." —Publishers Weekly