We Are In A Book! Written and illustrated by Mo Willems. Hyperion, H B Fenn, 2010. $9.99 ages 3 and up

"Oh!
I have a good idea!
I can make the reader say a word!

You can make the reader say a word?

I can
If the reader reads out loud."



Well, it seems the two steadfast friends have some discoveries to make together. After numerous adventures in previous books, they finally observe their place in the world....they are in a book!

Gerald is apprehensive when he makes the discovery that someone is looking at the two friends. Piggie, ever protective and domineering, turns a suspicious eye to the front and says he is right. Worried and fearing an attack by a monster, Gerald is reassured when Piggie announces that the someone is a READER. When Gerald does not quite get the meaning, Piggie explains that the speech bubbles means they are in a book. What excitement ensues!

Piggie, who enjoys power, is quick to note that she can make the reader read whatever she chooses, providing the book is being read aloud. Uh-oh! If you know these loveable characters and their previous stories, you know there is fun in store for all. It is a laugh riot and will have kids rolling on the floor! After Piggie has taken her turn with a word, she suggests that Gerald might like to try his hand at it before the book ends. Dear me!!!

Piggie announces that the book will end at page 57...Gerald is frantic that they are already at page 46! What can he do? How can he stop the reading train wreck? Piggie calmly shares her thoughts in whispered tones and Gerald is content. Let's hope that the ploy works.

I can't wait to share this book in classrooms, and with teachers during winter workshops! I am in awe, once more, of Mo Willems' ability to give his characters such a range of feelings using simple lines, the colors gray and pink and an extremely adept funny bone.

Christmas is coming...what better gift to give than one that can be opened endlessly.