The Big Storm

"PreSchool-K—Youngsters will begin counting up to 10 immediately as the gathering clouds and wind force a bird to take cover in a hollow part of a hill. Next comes a mouse scampering for shelter, followed by a skittering squirrel. They are soon joined by a rabbit, a chipmunk, a fox, etc. In the morning, after the skies clear, the 10 small woodland critters continue to hear "a rumble and a grumble in the air" and realize that their cave was already occupied by two sleeping bears. Children can then count back down as the animals make a hasty exit. Characteristic of a beloved Tafuri tale, this title accomplishes much with simplicity. Repetitive words—"rumble" and "grumble"—add tension to the plot. Dramatic poses picture the animals' wariness of the storm ahead. They are drawn huddled together for the night as a cozy bunch. An autumn-colored palette with orange-and-yellow leaves swirling across a spread is rendered in watercolor and watercolor pencils. A large black font shows each numeral up to 10. This book could be used for remembering sequences and lessons in "What happened next?""
Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA