Hey, Benny!
What are you doing, Benny?
Making a paper airplane?
I'm a genius at making paper
airplanes. I have a special way of
bending the wings up at the tips.
It makes them soar and swoop ... "
Little ones in a family love joining in the activities of their older siblings. That is true in this tale of two fox brothers as well. The younger fox's first person voice is honest and full of admiration for his big brother Benny. No matter what Benny is doing, his sibling wants to be a part of it. The little one is sure he can enhance every pursuit ... if only Benny will agree.
Agreement is not on Benny's mind. No matter what he is doing, and what the enticement promised, Benny has a pat answer: NO! Each time Benny walks away the little one follows, always wanting to be part of the fun. Each time Benny responds to the request for participation with one word: NO! Deciding to entertain himself with puppets, the little one is content until Benny shows up with a new pursuit.
"I followed him to the kitchen.
Benny?
Hey, Benny!
What are you doing, Benny?
Making a sandwich?
I like the way you use mustard and sliced chicken
and mayonnaise and pickles. In fact, you make the
best sandwiches in the world. I'm hungry, too.
So, can I have a sandwich, Benny?
No, said Benny."
Poor little one. Nothing is going to make Benny spend time with him. Benny is the manipulator. Or is he? What might it take to change his mind?
Kady Macdonald Denton, as she is so cleverly known to do, provides a n engaging setting, rich details, and gentle expressions that allow readers a clear look at the devotion the little one feels for his brother and the indulgence of the older for the younger sibling. Created with watercolors, ink and gouache, she places delightful images in boxes and on single and double page spreads to add humor, empathy, and awareness for every exchange.
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