Don't Blink, written and illustrated by Tom Booth. Feiwel and Friends, Macmillan. Raincoast. 2017. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"Excuse me, what
are you doing?

We're having a
staring contest.

May I join?
Sure!
Just don't blink!"

Do you remember having staring contests? Didn't take much organizing, or equipment. But you did have to have some stamina. I'm afraid I was not very good at it ... not competitive enough, I would guess. Also, it took up time that I could use for reading.

The little girl in this book is really into it. Before the title page, we surmise her to be determined and adventurous. When she issues her invitation, she is sitting cross-legged on grass, with boulders in the background - those same boulders that provided her path to this space and time.

"Are you ready?
On your mark ...
Get set ...     
Go!"

A bird interrupts, but does not deter her from the contest. She explains she is having a contest with an unknown reader. Me? The bird wants to be part of the fun, and is issued the titular warning: DON'T BLINK! Astute watchers will see a turtle's head emerging at the edge of the recto. Turn the page for the fox's entry on the verso. The girl? She's still staring.

The animals just keep coming, and all are welcome to join.

"The more
the merrier!

Just don't blink!"

As they all stare out at the reader, the turtle continues its plodding course toward the ever-enlarging group. It isn't long before all bright and fully open eyes begin to tire, and a complaint goes up from everyone involved. Not the turtle, he is still on his way over. Oh, my! Hold on everyone!!! Too late ...

A winner is not proclaimed. The lot wanders off to other ventures, leaving the turtle to finally make his way to the little girl. The game can begin once more! Lots of voices make this a perfect book for performance. Kids would have a grand time interpreting the various animals and showing the audience just how tiring staring can be. It might even be a new game for your repertoire.

Cannot wait to share it with Sicily. She will love it! Full of expression, with an inspired design, it is a book to be savored, and read again and again. You definitely want to be part of the fun!