Pink Refrigerator

Patent that refrigerator! Better yet, patent the spirit and inspiration that flow through Egan's story and give everyone a share. Egan's smooth storytelling and uncluttered pictures of endearing Dodsworth will easily engage kids, and children who are anxious about change may take encouragement from Dodsworth's delight as he tackles new experiences. Egan's contemplative picture books, including this story of inspiration, suit jaded adults as well as children. . . . Egan's fastidious, round-edged tracings and soothing, even watercolor hues serve well his unhurried tales, which unfold in a calm, homespun fashion. This volume, like Oh, the Places You'll Go!, urges a young crowd to seek experience, while counseling sedentary adults to create meaningful lives. Egan's masterful handling of the character's growth from lazy lump to a delighted self-starter will engage readers. . . . This off-beat tale is perfect for reading aloud, but will also be appreciated as a read-alone and lap-sit. It's never dull. The book's worthy message, not at all subtle, is refreshingly delivered without pretense. The similarly unfussy, muted illustrations are rendered with Egan's characteristic restraint, which emphasizes Dodsworth's low-key approach to life--even after creativity breathes inspiration into his mindless routine. What final directive sends Dodsworth riding off into the night, refrigerator treasures in tow, in search of an ocean? It's one that readers can ride off with as well: "Keep exploring." Horn Book Egan's smooth storytelling and uncluttered pictures of endearing Dodsworth will easily engage kids, and children who are anxious about change may take encouragement from Dodsworth's delight as he tackles new experiences.Booklist, ALA Egan's contemplative picture books, including this story of inspiration, suit jaded adults as well as children. . . . Egan's fastidious, round-edged tracings and soothing, even watercolor hues serve well his unhurried tales, which unfold in a calm, homespun fashion. This volume, like Oh, the Places You'll Go!, urges a young crowd to seek experience, while counseling sedentary adults to create meaningful lives.Publishers Weekly Patent that refrigerator! Better yet, patent the spirit and inspiration that flow through Egan's story and give everyone a share.Kirkus Reviews Egan's masterful handling of the character's growth from lazy lump to a delighted self-starter will engage readers. . . . This off-beat tale is perfect for reading aloud, but will also be appreciated as a read-alone and lap-sit. It's never dull.School Library Journal