LET’S DO THAT AGAIN!

After her mother playfully sneaks up on her, Little Brownmouse cries, “Let’s do that again!” Mrs. Brownmouse patiently replies, “Hmm, not now, because right now it’s time to go home.” And so the repetition begins as Mrs. Brownmouse moves along an ordinary but whimsical day, Little Brownmouse always asking for more. Williams’s (Tumble Me Tumbily, 2002, etc.) watercolors capture the liveliness and affection these two share. During her teacup bath, Little Brownmouse splashes her mother, who enjoys the moment as much as her child. Here and in other illustrations, Williams’s work supports the author’s message to parents of making the most out of the simplest routines. Oram, who has written over 60 books, has a knack for making the message subtle yet significant to adults or to children without trampling on the reading pleasure for both. The ending comes to a satisfying circle as Mr. Brownmouse arrives and startles his daughter with a “boo.” He asks, “Shall we do that again?” Now it is Little Brownmouse who moves the day to a close by replying, “Oh, no! Not now! Right now it is time for . . . ” and the family snuggles in as she finishes, “a great big good-night hug!” (Picture book. 2-7)