WHEN I GROW UP, I WILL WIN THE NOBEL PEACE PRIZE

Sly, ironic humor and unusual illustrations make this translation from the German more likely to appeal to adults than to children—if it appeals at all. While the first-person narrator professes a desire to behave well as an adult, the illustrations show a young boy consistently failing to meet those standards. From tying up a friend and stashing her under the sofa while playing cowboys and Indians to running away from the consequences when he accidentally breaks a window, the young boy’s actions contrast deliberately with his high-minded intentions. Unfortunately, this dissonance may confuse or dismay young listeners rather than amusing them. Muted colors and vaguely cartoonish characters with pointed noses and tiny feet add to the oddness and seem unlikely to have much kid appeal. While it seems likely that some part of the humor has gotten lost in translation—or, rather, simply doesn’t translate well—the most likely use of this lighthearted story will be as a heavy-handed tool to teach good manners, a fate it doesn’t deserve. (Picture book. 4-6)