PIGLET'S PICNIC

When Piglet invites nine of her friends to a picnic, young readers are also invited to “unpack” their picnic baskets. The tale sets children up to count from two to 10 as each set of friends arrives in the parade to the riverside picnic, Piglet worrying all the while if they’ve brought enough to share, as she is “peckish.” But when they finally sit down to eat, the problem is not one of amount but of taste. Lifting the gatefolds reveals that the sheep have brought grass, the mouse some smelly cheese—and the birds’ and frogs’ contributions are still alive! Luckily, Piglet settles on the perfect solution, and everyone enjoys the feast and the company. Brightly colored backgrounds and cut-paper collages are Souhami’s trademark, here enhanced by charcoal details. The animals are easy to count, and the gatefolds will stand up to repeated readings. While the incorporation of synonyms may appeal to adults, for those who are teaching their children not to say “yuck” to other people’s food choices, this may be one to miss—a small quibble. (Picture book. 3-6)