MOLLY MAE'S MILKSHAKES

In Kirchgasser’s debut picture book, a milkless cow discovers her true talent.

Moocow Meadows is famous for its milk, thanks to prize cows Ma and Pa Moocow. Two of their daughters—Eliza B. and Clara Bell—produce award-winning milk, but dungaree-wearing Molly Mae proves unable to produce it at all. Molly Mae is upset until her chicken friend, C.K. Doodle, encourages her to pursue other interests. She tries painting, dog walking, singing, accounting, and other things, all with a lack of aptitude. In the end, though, she proves a dab hand at mixing milkshakes—so Moocow Meadows becomes renowned for “having the best milk AND milkshakes in town.” Kirchgasser tells a simple, uplifting story with a can-do positive outlook. Molly Mae’s sadness comes from within, rather than being imposed upon her by others, and Moocow Meadows is a vibrant, happy place—as effectively depicted through swathes and splashes of color depicting emotion. Attema-Welte brings the story to life with busy cartoon illustrations, mostly across double-page spreads and at the greenish-purple end of the color spectrum. The images—featuring droopy trees, milkshake messes, strawberries, and sprinkles—are especially delightful in their use of texture. Human characters are portrayed with various skin tones.

A joyous celebration of difference and individuality.