Moo-Moo, I Love You!

Moo proves an extremely malleable term of affection in the late Krouse Rosenthal's text, illustrated by previous collaborator Lichtenheld (Duck! Rabbit!). "Moo-moo, I love you," declares an exuberantly cartooned cow to her calf. With a big hug, the two launch into a day of improvised "moo" words, with every oo filled in for emphasis. They celebrate a shared love of "pizza with extra moo-zzarella" and "farm hu-moo-r" (cut to a chicken crossing the road). Mom's love is even evident in watching her calf confidently "sch-moo-zing" with friends at the bus stop--a lovely example of how a parent takes pride in a child's navigating the greater world. Leaving no room for doubt, Mom declares her love is as big as a "Moo-se," which gives Lichtenheld the opportunity to cover two full spreads with a hugely antlered, deadpan critter ("You can moo-ve now," says the slightly annoyed calf, peeking out from behind the enormous animal). Printed on kraft colored paper and drawn with thick black crayon-like outlines and punctuations of warm color, it's a book that has the feel of a cherished homemade valentine from a devoted parent who is fond of wordplay. Ages 4-8. Agent: Amy Rennert, the Amy Rennert Agency. (Sept.)

PreS-Gr 1--Lichtenheld and Rosenthal's latest is an ode to love and the special relationship between a parent and child. The sparse text and exaggerated use of the three little letters that spell "moo" will have preschoolers giggling. "I love giving you a big s-moo-ch" has a playfulness that is utterly matched by the crayon-effect illustrations. The mostly black and white drawings are set upon tan pages and enhanced by pops of primary colors throughout. Readers young and old will love the wordplay, smile at the adoring relationship between cow and calf, and be reminded that love has no bounds. VERDICT A joyful read and worthy addition to any library collection.--Maegen Rose, Rye Country Day Sch., NY