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Friday, March 2, 2018

What Are You Waiting For? Written by Scott Menchin and illustrated by Matt Phelan. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast. 2017. $23.99 ages 3 and up

"Does it have a mustache?

That's funny, but no!

Does it have eyes?

Yep! Sure does.

Does it have legs or a
tail?"

The two friends are obviously waiting for something special; at least the badger is hoping so. As they wander through the beauty of the woodland that is their home, they chat. The badger, at a disadvantage to knowing just what it is they are waiting for, is full of questions. The rabbit is content to answer only the questions asked.

There is no rush, no pushing beyond the quiet, shared conversation. It is an amiable way to spend their day. Readers will enjoy the mystery as much as the beauty of the natural world they explore with the two friends. That dialogue is simple and telling, without spoiling the ending.

"Oh no, I fell asleep.
Did I miss it? Did I miss it?

You woke up just in time.

I don't see anything.

Turn around."

The turn of the page requires a accompanying turn to vertical, and the mystery is revealed ... as wondrous as the rest of the natural world the two have shared throughout their day! The delicate and dreamy pencil and pastel illustrations keep the focus on that natural world, while also designed to include variety in perspective. Matt Phelan uses double page spreads, bordered images and the occasional spot illustration to add context and enjoyment.

Just right for bedtime, although it will surely draw requests for 'please, read it again!'

Contemplative, captivating and worth waiting for!

                                                                                 

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